From revitalising step free access in heritage spaces to improving safety and accessibility in some of the UK’s most iconic locations, Stannah Lifts has played a key role in a range of prestigious projects. Whether balancing old and new at the Creamery, delivering a seamless multi-lift solution at Welcome Break’s latest service station, or improving engineer access inside Big Ben, Stannah Lifts continues to showcase its vast expertise.
The Creamery
Once a dairy processing local farmers’ milk into cheese for transport to London in 1912, the Creamery has been reconstructed by Ken Biggs Contractors as a vibrant hub with a restaurant and shop celebrating its past.
A standout feature is the bespoke all-glass lift installed by Stannah Lifts with Stonewood Design, using bespoke German glass from Gemtec. Handrails were discreetly integrated into the glass panels without corner trims, and the keyhole for operating the lift doors was repositioned to align with the minimalist aesthetic, all contributing to a seamless and elegant design.
Signal issues inside the lift shaft were resolved with a GSM package and antenna, ensuring reliable operation. This project stands out for its careful balance between heritage preservation and modern functionality, allowing all visitors to experience a piece of local history.
Welcome Break
Welcome Break’s 60th Yorkshire village inspired service station features a multi-lift solution from Stannah Lifts ensuring smooth movement of visitors and goods.
Stannah Lifts installed a 13-person MRL traction passenger lift to improve accessibility for wheelchair users, families with prams and those with reduced mobility. It provides energy-efficient travel with VVVF drives, LED lighting and remote monitoring. The A2C escalator supports visitor flow with a wide step, durable glass balustrade and energy-saving slow-down mode. Back of house, Stannah Lifts proposed a 1,000kg Goodsmaster goods lift to ensure safe transport of goods between floors, improving workflow and reducing manual handling risks.
This coordinated approach delivered all three lift solutions seamlessly ahead of schedule, ensuring reliable and efficient movement throughout Welcome Break’s first new service station in two decades.
Big Ben
Built in 1859, Big Ben has faced more than 160 years of wear. During its first full restoration, Stannah Lifts was tasked with creating safe lift access for engineers without disturbing the tower’s historic fabric. Previously, the only route up was a narrow 334-step spiral staircase, posing safety risks and making transporting equipment difficult.
Working with Sir Robert McAlpine Special Projects and SVM Associates, Stannah Lifts designed two bespoke lifts to install inside the tower’s unused 11.7m² ventilation shaft, overcoming tight space and the 0.23-degree lean with a compact 500kg hydraulic lift for the final ascent.
Winners of the RIBA London Award and Elevator World’s Project of the Year Award, Big Ben has since been shortlisted for RIBA’s Stirling Prize.
For more information on lift solutions, visit: https://www.stannahlifts.co.uk/
