Lancaster Gate station has reopened early following major improvement work.

It closed on January 3 for the replacement of two aging lifts and was not expected to reopen until mid July .

However, the Central line station welcomed back passengers on Monday (June 26).

It closed at the start of the year to allow the replacement of its two 50-person lifts, which were nearly 30-years-old.

There was anger at the time the closure was announced by London Assembly Member Tony Devenish, who said passengers were not given enough notice of the refurbishment work.

The Conservative representative for Hammersmith and Fulham, Westminster, and Kensington and Chelsea had said: “The failure to give sufficient warning to the thousands of people who live and work in my constituency and indeed much of South West England is disrespectful and totally unacceptable.

“The needs of my constituents have been completely neglected by TfL when making this decision and the Mayor must be held to account for the serious effects this may have on our community.

“The cavalier approach adopted by TfL in closing the station in this manner does little to enhance the Mayor’s reputation for supporting business.”

Mr Khan later apologised for the handling of the temporary closure.

The new lifts at Lancaster Gate will include CCTV and hearing induction loops.

Ticket gates at the station have also been modernised and public areas have been redecorated to give a smarter, fresher look.

Mark Wild, managing director of London Underground, said: “I thank customers and local businesses for their patience throughout the lift replacement work, which was carried out as swiftly as possible.

“The early re-opening of the station with more reliable new lifts will improve transport connections in the area, benefitting local people, businesses and visitors alike.”

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