This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
The Isle of Wight Council is looking into ways of re-opening pedestrian access at the top of the Shanklin Cliff Lift while longer term solutions are sought.
The council is investigating installing an alternative form of bridge structure which can be installed more quickly and last longer than the existing steel foot bridge, which was closed last week for safety reasons.
Unexpected rapid deterioration
This was due to the unexpected rapid deterioration of the steel structure which has led to the lift being temporarily put out of service. This is deterioration that has previously been known.
Previously identified works that were under consideration were on the understanding they would be undertaken at the end of the 2015 tourism season and therefore do not affect the current situation.
Potential funding identified
A potential source of funding has also been identified, and a report on options for the cliff lift will still be made at May’s Executive meeting as had been previously planned.
Councillor Jonathan Bacon, Isle of Wight Council leader, said:
“I had a very positive meeting with business owners, the town council and residents in Shanklin last week (2 April).
“We understand the concern and depth of feeling on this issue, which is why as soon as we were made aware of the problems with the footbridge at the lift, we spoke to Southern Vectis to organise a replacement bus service over the Easter period.
“We intend on taking steps to resolve the situation as soon as possible for the benefit of the local area and tourists.”
Works from report completed
The council is also clarifying that immediate works identified as being required in a June 2013 report at the lift were carried out.
These were the removal of a maintenance gantry underneath the steel footbridge, and the introduction of a weight restriction.
Both of these works took place.
Image: © With kind permission of simonhaytack
