Network Rail is advising passengers to allow extra time for their journeys if they need to change platforms at Stoke-on-Trent station without using steps.

Water from Storm Babet last week has damaged the lift for the footbridge to cross over the tracks between platforms 1 and 2, so it can not be used until it is repaired. While the footbridge’s lift is out of use, passengers will be provided with a free shuttle taxi ride from one side of the station to the other.

The lift was repaired less than a year ago following an electrical problem.

Network Rail engineers are working on the lift and hope to restore step-free access for passengers as quickly as possible.

Passengers can plan their journeys in advance at the national rail website.

Martin Ball, route infrastructure engineer for Network Rail’s West Coast South route, said: “We’re sorry for the inconvenience the water damage to the lift will cause to passengers at Stoke-on-Trent station. We’re working as quickly as we can to get it working again and restore step-free access between the platforms.

“While we carry out these essential repairs, our advice is to please allow extra time for your journeys and where possible, contact your train operator’s passenger assistance team before you travel so the shuttle taxi can be arranged for you in advance.”

Laura Harper, Avanti West Coast station manager at Stoke on-Trent, said: “We’re working with Network Rail and industry partners to help customers while work to repair the lifts at Stoke station takes place.

“As always, our teams will be on hand to help customers travelling to and from Stoke during this time but we strongly recommend customers plan ahead, check before they travel and leave extra time for their journey.”