Plan proposed to fix crack in funicular wall

Hastings Borough Council said it will consider the plan

Proposals to repair part of the East Hill Cliff Railway in East Sussex will go in front of planners next week.

On 23 October Hastings Borough Council’s planning committee is expected to consider a listed building application seeking permission to make repairs to the top station building, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The application involves the removal and replacement of damaged stones within the building, as well as the removal of the steel beams and restraint plates.

A report to the committee said: “The purpose of the proposed works are to essentially repair an existing crack on a side wall of the building."

The report notes the proposals had initially seen concerns raised by the council’s conservation officer, who requested additional information on the works.

The council appointed a structural engineer, who the conservation officer said had provided “proportionate, clear and convincing justification” for the works.

The conservation officer also noted how the council may need to seek further listed building consent if other repair works are revealed to be necessary.

The lift, which is the steepest funicular in the UK, was closed for repairs for a year between 2022 and 2023.

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