Still no timeframe on repairs to Whitley Bay's promenade
A section of Whitley Bay’s promenade that collapsed onto the beach is to remain closed for the foreseeable future, with no timescale set for when repairs will take place.
A ramp on the lower promenade in Whitley Bay, opposite Ocean View, was closed last week over safety concerns after a chunk of it fell onto the beach.
On November 4, when approached by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, North Tyneside Council said it was still investigating the site alongside engineers.
No clear timeline for repairs has yet been determined but the local authority says it is continuing to examine the most appropriate options.
Whitley Bay North councillor Joe Kirwin says repairing the huge void should be a “top priority for all involved”, dubbing the popular beach the “crown jewel of North Tyneside”.
A spokesperson previously said: ”Please do not attempt to access the beach using this ramp or enter the restricted area. Fencing and warning signs are in place at both ends, and we ask everyone to respect these restrictions.
“The beach can still be accessed using the steps to the north on the prom. Accessible beach access is available at Watts Slope, just north of Spanish City.
"Structural investigations are ongoing to assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs.”
The news of the fallen portion of the promenade came just a day after the Local Democracy Reporting Service revealed that the council has reserved almost £2m to restore and refurbish the causeway leading to St Mary’s Lighthouse.