Relocation of Escalators in the Paris Region

Relocation of Two Escalators at Westfield Vélizy 2 Shopping Centre: A Complex Operation Successfully Delivered by Porteurs 2000

The Bovis Group, through its Porteurs 2000 branch, recently completed a major operation at Westfield Vélizy 2, one of the largest shopping centres in the Paris region: the relocation of two escalators, each measuring 7 metres in length and weighing 13 tonnes.

Originally installed by Porteurs 2000 five years ago, these escalators needed to be relocated as part of the shopping centre's interior redevelopment project.

This operation perfectly demonstrates the expertise of our Escalators Centre of Excellence, specialising in the handling, installation and relocation of escalators, moving walkways and elevators.

A Complex Operation Carried Out in a Live Environment

For each escalator, the following operations were completed:

• Complete dismantling of the escalator
• Ground handling of all components using forklifts and machinery skates
• Transportation through the shopping centre's corridors, including narrow access routes
• Partial disassembly and reassembly (sectioning and splicing) to overcome site access constraints
• Lifting and installation at the new location

To minimise disruption to shoppers and retailers, the entire operation was carried out during night shifts over eight working days, ensuring the shopping centre remained fully operational throughout the project.

Specialist Equipment and Skilled Personnel

To successfully complete this project, Porteurs 2000 deployed:

• Five specialist heavy-handling technicians
• Electric chain hoists adapted to the site's specific constraints
• A forklift truck for heavy lifting operations
• A fully equipped service vehicle providing on-site technical support

This combination of experienced personnel and specialist equipment ensured a safe, efficient and perfectly controlled relocation.

The Expertise of the Bovis Escalators Centre of Excellence

Leveraging decades of experience, Porteurs 2000 leads the Escalators Centre of Excellence within the Bovis Group, providing a comprehensive range of specialist services, including:

• Delivery and installation of escalators and moving walkways
• Abnormal load transport and crane lifting operations
• Heavy handling in restricted-access environments (shopping centres, railway stations, airports, museums and office buildings)
• Storage and logistics solutions for new equipment and spare parts
• Dismantling, removal and disposal of obsolete equipment

Night-time operations in shopping centres and railway stations have become one of Porteurs 2000's recognised areas of expertise. This approach enables uninterrupted service for the public while meeting the strict scheduling requirements of site operators.

Thorough Planning Supported by Our In-House Engineering Department

The success of operations such as this also relies on the expertise of the Bovis Group's dedicated Escalators Engineering Department, whose responsibilities include:

• Producing technical drawings and 3D simulations to plan every stage of the project
• Selecting and sizing the most appropriate handling equipment
• Developing bespoke methodologies tailored to site access constraints and each project's specific requirements

Thanks to this meticulous preparation, our teams consistently deliver safe, reliable and optimised operations that meet the highest industry standards.

Looking for an Escalator Relocation Specialist in the Paris Region?

The Bovis Group and its Porteurs 2000 branch are trusted partners for heavy handling, installation and logistics of escalators and moving walkways, delivering complex projects in the most demanding environments.