News

The future of Folkestone's Leas lift is to be discussed at the Shepway Cabinet meeting on 18 March "in secret" claims a top Council Liberal Democrat.

It is one of the oldest Victorian water lifts in the country and leased by the Council from the Radnor Estate but the agenda of the meeting shows a "secret" item to discuss the potential termination of the lease.

Over £24,000 has been raised towards the restoration of the second lift towards a target of £25,000 but the termination of the lease would put the project in severe jeopardy, and could even see the lift stop running altogether.

Shepway Liberal Democrat Group Leader Lynne Beaumont is furious at the proposal, and how it is being handled.

Cllr Beaumont said: "Local people have raised thousands towards the restoration of the Leas lift, which is a hugely well known and popular landmark. To terminate the lease on the lift now would be a huge slap in the face for the fundraisers who have worked so hard and all those who have donated.

"To bury this item on an agenda which is now - following an edict from Council Leader Robert Bliss - not even routinely circulated to all Councillors and to hear the discussion in secret without a consultation or information in advance is a disgrace.

"Shepway Council should be honest about the current position of the lease, be working to retain it on the best possible terms for the preservation of the lift and the benefit of the town."