The famous Scarborough Spa Cliff Lift has been closed with immediate effect.
It follows an independent assessment by specialist engineers.
They found a number of issues with its infrastructure and critical components.
North Yorkshire Council took the decision to shut the lift after receiving a report by the engineers highlighting the issues.
It is Britain’s oldest funicular cliff lift and one of the Scarborough’s popular heritage attractions.
The council’s leader, Cllr Carl Les, said: “The lift is an important part of Scarborough’s history and identity, and we recognise the affection people have for this landmark attraction.
“We are now carefully reviewing the report and considering what options may be available.
“No decisions have yet been made regarding the scope of any future works, timescales or funding arrangements.”
The lift dates from the Victorian era and was built in 1875 at a cost of about £8,000.
It is located in a challenging coastal environment and is exposed to salt-laden air, high winds and harsh weather conditions, all of which can accelerate wear and corrosion.
The lift has been subject to routine inspections and maintenance over the years.
However, the latest assessment was a detailed engineering survey focused on the condition of the tracks, carriages and associated infrastructure.
The council will continue to assess the findings in detail and will provide further updates in due course.
Whitby lift closed
The news follows the closure of the Whitby Cliff Lift in 2022 due to corrosion and water damage.
“Worst-case” repairs to fix it were estimated at £5.5 million by North Yorkshire Council.
Plans to permanently close it were postponed earlier this year after an outcry.
Campaigners, Scarborough and Whitby’s MP, and local councillors have called for the lift – which links North Terrace to the beach below – to be repaired, saying it “is not a luxury, it’s a necessity”.
Thousands of people signed a petition asking for it to be saved and brought back into use.