Scarborough councillors are set to debate the future and potential reopening of the historic Spa Cliff Lift, which was closed indefinitely in August due to safety and infrastructure concerns.
The closure of an historic cliff lift in Scarborough will be debated by councillors a month after it was shut down.
Scarborough Spa Cliff Lift was closed in August with “immediate effect due to a number of issues” that had been identified with its infrastructure and critical components.
A month later, one of the most historic attractions in the seaside resort remains out of service with no clear date for its reopening.
On August 21, North Yorkshire Council decided to shut the lift to ensure the public’s safety following an independent assessment by specialist engineers.
Scarborough councillors have tabled a motion at a full meeting of the town council to consider the recent closure and “the prospects for reopening the lift”.
The lift dates from the Victorian era and was built in 1875 at a cost of about £8,000.
Councillors will debate whether to make “formal representations to North Yorkshire Council seeking clarification on the reasons for closure, the nature of any defects or remedial works, the likely timescale for repair” at a full meeting on Tuesday, September 22.
Scarborough Town Council will decide “what, if any, response it wishes to make and to determine any wording or action required”.
A report by the engineers has highlighted the issues with the cliff lift, which is one of the seaside town’s popular heritage attractions.
The council’s leader, Cllr Carl Les, said:
“The lift is an important part of Scarborough’s history and identity, and we recognise the affection people have for this landmark attraction.
“We are now carefully reviewing the report and considering what options may be available.
“No decisions have yet been made regarding the scope of any future works, timescales or funding arrangements.”
While the lift has been subject to routine inspections and maintenance over the years, NYC’s assessment in August was a detailed engineering survey focused on the condition of the tracks, carriages and associated infrastructure.
It is in a challenging coastal environment and is exposed to salt-laden air, high winds and harsh weather conditions, all of which can accelerate wear and corrosion.
The council said it would continue to assess the findings in detail and would provide “further updates in due course”.
In March, councillors postponed plans to permanently decommission Whitby’s Cliff Lift in favour of a new study to determine its future.
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