In message , at
22:40:59 on Tue, 24 Jan 2012, Neil Williams
remarked:
When berthing at a high-level platform, a trap door is lowered,
covering the steps in the vestibule.

Thanks.

What would you call it?

I don't think we'd have a name as we don't have any - the UK is all
high platformed, or for the rare low ones (not US low) there are
usually wooden steps left on the platform.

The only thing even vaguely like it is the retractable step on
Metrolink trams in Manchester, but I think the platforms are now all
high so they are unused now. All other tram systems in the UK are all
low platform with low floor trams.

There's the retractable steps on Eurostar trains, which adjust to the
platform edge. But they (and the doors in general) are very slow to
operate and would be hopeless on a commuter service [yes, I know the
stock was briefly used on the ECML].
--
Roland Perry