A RESIDENT living in a block of flats in Bradford city centre has hit out the length of time it has taken to repair two lifts in the building.

Earlier this week, a resident contacted the T&A to claim that two lifts had been unavailable for weeks in Olicana House, on Chapel Street, Little Germany, while waiting to be repaired.

Those in charge of managing the building have apologised that tenants have been affected by the broken lifts, pointing out that the building owner has had to wait for essential parts to be delivered to repair the lifts, which has now happened.

The resident, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: "Having one lift out of action for eight weeks is do-able but to have both out of action for three weeks is disgusting. Even with one, it's just about tolerable.

"I struggled going up and down the stairs and when I sat on the stairs at the fourth floor (to rest), several people had gone past me who were struggling to breathe.

"It's not just been affecting my health but other tenants as well.

"I've got problems with my back stemming from 2001 when I fell down a set of stairs.

"I use a shopping trolley when I'm out and I worry about falling down the stairs here.

"Trying to get up these stairs is really affecting my breathing."

She said she recently came back from a long train journey and struggled to lug two heavy suitcases up ten flights of stairs.

"There are security workers in the building but they're not allowed to help us."

David Fensome, Chief Executive of Concept Housing Association, said: "We provide homes to around 100 people at Olicana House and are sorry that our tenants have been affected by the broken lifts there.

"The building owner has been working to get the lifts fixed as quickly as possible, but has had to wait on essential parts being delivered.

"One lift was fixed on Wednesday and the other one is due to be repaired today (Friday).

"Olicana House residents have been kept informed of the situation throughout and those who are our customers have received regular welfare checks relating to this issue, in addition to their regular support.

"Alternative accommodation has been offered and provided where needed."

Olicana House served as an office building until it was sold by Bradford Council eight years ago and converted into flats.

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