Agenda item

Considered a report of the Corporate Director of Environment which provided an update on the second inspection of the Whitby Cliff Lift shaft undertaken by Anglo American on 21 January 2026 and the issues facing the council in respect of the lift.

The statements and questions of Peter Graham, John Howarth, Benita Nicholson, Sue Stuart, Averil Jefferson and Dorothy Russell were put to the committee and replies received. (see Minute 183 above).

Members were advised that the findings remained largely unchanged from the previous inspection in August 2025, confirming that whilst the shaft appeared dry, water ingress continued to be the underlying cause of corrosion and structural deterioration.

Members were further reminded that the previous estimate of £5 million for full waterproofing works was only an indicative worst‑case scenario and not based on detailed surveys. Further extensive investigative work would be required before any definitive costings could be established. The cost of repairing the lift mechanism itself was estimated at approximately £599k, not including any deterioration since 2020.

Members noted the significant financial pressures facing the Council following the reduction in Government funding and the need for £20.7m in savings over three years. Despite this, members expressed strong support for reinstating the lift, emphasising its importance for accessibility, heritage value, and Whitby’s visitor economy.

During discussion, members raised the following key points:

·       The original £5m waterproofing cost was not credible and should not be relied upon for decision making. A full set of updated surveys was needed to establish accurate figures.

·       The replacement bus was inadequate for disabled users and did not provide equivalent accessibility to the lift.

·       The cost of decommissioning (up to £538k) offered poor value compared to repair costs and would remove an important historic asset.

·       The need for the lift to operate as a going concern supported by a robust business plan, including future maintenance and operational costs.

·       The petition previously submitted demonstrated extremely strong public backing for reinstatement.

·       Members referenced concerns about potential long‑term dereliction should demolition not proceed and sought clarity on planning requirements depending on the Executive’s chosen option.

In response, the Head of Harbours and Coastal Infrastructure confirmed:

·       Further surveys would be required before any repair scheme could proceed; the 2020 figures were indicative only.

·       Planning permission would be required if the top station building were to be demolished, as it lay within a conservation area.

·       The Executive was scheduled to consider the future of the lift on 17 March 2026.

Following debate, it was

RESOLVED that the committee request that the Executive:

1. Recognise the Whitby Cliff Lift as an important historic and heritage asset for the town.

2. Direct officers to commission a full up‑to‑date technical survey of the lift shaft, structure and mechanical systems, together with robust costings for repair, waterproofing and ventilation solutions.

3. Prepare a full business plan for the lift as a going concern, including maintenance, operational costs and opportunities for income generation.

4. Consider these updated findings before making any decision regarding decommissioning.

With the final wording to be determined by agreement after the committee meeting.

(Following her declaration at Minute Item 181 Councillor Heather Phillips did not take part in the discussion and determination of this item).