Town hall staircase lacks sufficient handrail, posing potential safety concerns.

In an unexpected turn of events, the spiral staircase in Ludwigslust Town Hall's light-filled courtyard has been closed due to safety concerns, as reported by the accident insurance company. The closure has caused displeasure and disbelief among employees and visitors, as well as the town's mayor, Stefan Pinnow.

The issue with the staircase's railing was discovered during a routine inspection by the accident insurance company. According to their findings, the metal railing is ten centimeters too low, posing a potential safety risk.

The last regular inspection of the stairs was conducted by a state authority in 2024, with the engineering office for wood and construction Holzhausen GmbH commissioned for the task. However, the reason why the defect on the first staircase was not noticed in previous inspections remains unclear.

Mayor Pinnow has expressed his disbelief about the closure and has offered to discuss the issue with the accident insurance company. He intends to contact the higher authority, the district, to clarify the matter regarding the staircase.

The repair of the spiral staircase's railing, estimated to cost 20,000 euros, has not been approved by Mayor Pinnow yet. Despite the closure, another staircase in the town hall has also been criticized by the accident insurance company, but it cannot be closed as it is part of an escape route.

It's worth noting that the staircase in question has been a part of the lavishly renovated town hall and has been in operation for many years without any incidents or previous notice of the criticized railing. The temporary closure has resulted in significant detours for employees and visitors in the town hall.

Mayor Pinnow, who was elected in 2023, reacted with disbelief to the closure. He emphasized that the town hall has taken great care to ensure the safety and well-being of its employees and visitors, and the sudden closure of the staircase came as a surprise.

As the situation develops, the town hall and Mayor Pinnow will work closely with the accident insurance company to address the issue and ensure the safety of everyone in the building. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.

Town hall staircase lacks sufficient handrail, posing potential safety concerns.