The reality is that there were never any side handrails at the W H Smith's end until temporary ones were provided by Network Rail whilst the footbridge was being rebuilt. For some strange reason they took them away when the footbridge was opened (and disconnected their additional lighting). However, building regulations require handrails both sides of a stairway that is more than 1 metre wide - which this certainly is. Whilst Network Rail and Lewisham could argue that building regulations don't apply to these stairs, they won't look good in Court if someone falls down the stairs and injures themselves for want of a handrail, just after they have done a refurbishment.