Public Access at the Palace
Public Access Limited installed the Hiro 320 inclined platform lift within the confines of Buckingham Palace in January 2009, located at the west wing, choir boy’s hallway.
Buckingham Palace required the Hiro 320 inclined platform lift to overcome physical barriers for wheelchair access within the palace. The introduction of the lift will ensure all visitors easy passage to the entrances of the conventional passenger lifts.
Public Access designed the lift with our staircase photography measurement system (photogrammetary). With this system Public Access were able to tackle the grand detail of the staircase and produce a CAD drawing precise to 0.079mm, on which the lift was designed, ensuring a smooth installation.
Due to the Hiro 320’s friction drive system, the lift track is formed using smooth stainless steel guide rails which are also a compliant handrail when the lift is dormant. The design offers silent vibration free movement, unlike unsightly and potentially dangerous rack and pinion systems.
A spokesperson for the palace said: It is very important that the Palace is fully accessible for all our visitors, so we are sure this installation will be a large step in the right direction.

