Atria Watford has said it is unable to provide a timeframe for reopening some escalators at its car parks - months after they were "temporarily" closed.

The Watford Observer reported in June that some escalators to car park levels had been taken out of service as part of a project to monitor customer behaviour and assess lift usage. 

This led to complaints from elderly residents and others with decreased mobility, with the move being criticised by advocacy charity Disability Watford.

Four months on, a number of escalators remain closed, with the popular shopping centre "continuing to review options".

A spokesperson for atria said: “We are committed to ensuring atria Watford is an inclusive and accessible environment for all.

"Escalators linking the lower and upper malls, and the upper mall and Level 1 of the car parks are fully operational, ensuring that all parts of the centre remain fully accessible to wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility."

The spokesperson added that "following the temporary closure of escalators within our Kings and Palace car parks earlier this year, we continue to review options to best meet the needs of our visitors".

When asked to clarify if or when the escalators would be reopened, the spokesperson said they were unable to provide a timeframe but would provide an update if the situation changes.

North Watford resident Jeff King fumed at what he claimed has been a "full year" of escalators not working on a number of floors.

He complained that he had to walk from level three down to the second floor before going back up to the third to collect his car.

Earlier this year, retiree Gillian Ibbott hit out at the "horrendous" situation at the shopping centre.

The 69-year-old is unable to use stairs due a heart problem.

Another car park user said: "It's terrible if you're elderly or have trouble walking. Particularly when the shopping centre is busy."

As well as the closure of escalators, some of the lifts at the car park are out of order, providing increasingly limited options for the elderly and disabled.

Some shoppers have also complained that people, including families with pushchairs, are forced to cram into the lifts that are available.