Whitby's Historic Cliff Lift Faces Permanent Closure After 90 Years
Plans to permanently shut down Whitby's iconic Cliff Lift have been outlined by North Yorkshire Council, leaving local residents and visitors devastated. The historic attraction, which first opened in 1931, has been a staple of the seaside resort for over nine decades, providing vital access to the beach from West Cliff.
Repair Costs and Temporary Closure
The Cliff Lift was temporarily closed in 2022 due to significant corrosion and water damage. Now, council officials have estimated that repair costs could total approximately £5.5 million, leading to proposals for permanent closure. The lift's building is considered a non-designated heritage asset, adding to the emotional weight of the decision.
Community and Political Reactions
Campaigners and local representatives have voiced strong opposition to the closure plans. Alison Hume, MP for Scarborough and Whitby, emphasized the lift's importance, stating: "The Whitby Cliff Lift is part of Whitby’s identity as well as providing vital access to the beach from the West Cliff. This is a good opportunity to invest in a town which brings so much value to the county as a golden tourism goose."
Andy Jefferson, a campaigner, warned the BBC that the beach could risk losing its Blue Flag accessible beach award if the lift is permanently shut down. This highlights the broader implications for tourism and accessibility standards in the area.
Accessibility Concerns for Elderly and Disabled Visitors
A spokesperson for the Whitby Community Network told The Yorkshire Post: "Setting aside the fact that the Cliff Lift building is actually a non-designated heritage asset and so should be proportioned a level of protection, it has a critical importance. That is, providing access to Whitby sea wall to many elderly and disabled people who either live in the town or visit – the town has double the national average of over-60s and the visitor age profile is not seen as so dissimilar."
This statement underscores the lift's role in ensuring inclusive access to the seafront, particularly for vulnerable groups who rely on it for mobility.
Council's Stance and Future Decision
Karl Battersby, North Yorkshire Council’s corporate director of environment, acknowledged the lift's significance: "We understand how important access to the seafront in Whitby is for residents and visitors alike. The cliff lift has been a staple of the town’s history, and we are not taking a decision lightly."
He added: "For the lift to be brought back into use, there would be significant costs for repairs and ongoing maintenance, and there remains uncertainty surrounding the need for waterproofing the shaft. We have listened to the views of the local community and our executive members will discuss its future on March 17, considering how many people used it and making an informed decision that ensures we use taxpayers’ money wisely."
The council's executive members are set to discuss the lift's future on March 17, weighing factors such as usage statistics and financial prudence. This decision will impact not only the town's heritage but also its tourism economy and community accessibility, making it a critical issue for all stakeholders involved.
