Fire-damaged tramway will not reopen for Easter

The Victorian lift was badly damaged and needs a "full rewire"

A Victorian cliffside lift extensively damaged in a fire will not reopen this Easter.

Saltburn Tramway was closed for annual maintenance on 9 January, with the fire breaking out six days later.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council said there was "serious internal damage to the building" and a full rewire was needed.

The local authority added teams were working to ensure the tramway would reopen "as soon as possible", although it confirmed it would not be this Easter.

The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical

The blaze at Saltburn Bank broke out on 15 January, with the fire brigade confirming it started in the electrical plant room.

Carrie Richardson, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's deputy leader, said there was "serious internal damage" to the building and operating equipment.

"Our teams are continuing to work hard on a plan to make sure the Tramway reopens as soon as possible.

"However this is likely to take some time and, although we can’t put a date on reopening at this time, it will not be this Easter."