‘These steps are in a dangerous condition, we had no choice but to close them’
The closed steps down to Selwicks Bay at Flamborough(Image: East Riding of Yorkshire Council)
People are being urged not to ignore the closure of steps down to a Flamborough beach as they are putting themselves in danger. East Riding Council has issued the warning after reports beachgoers were climbing over a closure barrier at the entrance to walk down the steps to Selwicks Bay, near Flamborough Lighthouse, north of Bridlington.
The metal stairs down the cliff side were closed by the council in June for safety reasons after an inspection found they were in a seriously damaged condition, with clear and invisible structural issues caused by heavy footfall and corrosion by the elements. A fixed barrier and closure signs were installed at the top of the steps to prevent their use and to keep people safe.
But the council has been told some people are disregarding the closure signs and are clambering over the barrier to walk the steps to get to the beach. As the steps are the only way to reach Selwicks Bay, it means the beach is temporarily closed, too.
There are also concerns paddle boarders travelling to Selwicks Bay beach from nearby North Beach may find themselves stranded, or have to turn back, as they no longer have a way up the cliff. Council engineers and contractors are currently working on a solution, but the steps are likely to be closed for some time.
The damage caused to the structure may mean the steps may need to be rebuilt. Councillor Nick Coultish, the council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, tourism and planning, said: “We don’t want to restrict access to this beach, but these steps are in a dangerous condition, so we had no choice but to close them.
“Please don’t ignore the barrier and closure signs, because there is a real risk that someone could get seriously hurt if the steps give way. This won’t be a quick repair, unfortunately.
“The damage means we may have to rebuild them. We look forward to reopening these steps when they are made safe, but until then, please don’t use them.”
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