More than 600 people have signed a petition calling on Brighton and Hove City Council to “Restore the Madeira lift to its former glory”.
If enough people sign the petition, on the Change.org website, it will be debated at a meeting of the full council.
The woman who started the petition, Rebecca Bunker, has been involved with the Save Madeira Terraces campaign since it began 11 years ago.
She said: “Join me in calling upon our local leaders to honour their commitment to the Madeira lift and ensure its restoration.”
Her petition said that the lift, which closed in 2023, was a symbol of Brighton and Hove’s “rich history and resilience” which is disappearing.
The petition said: “Once a vital part of our community’s heritage, this iconic structure now sits neglected, a reminder of the lack of commitment to preserving our local history.
“When the advisory panel for the Madeira Arches restoration convened, we were promised the lift would be restored in the future but the priority was an accessible lift to be built first.
“Unfortunately, this doesn’t now seem to be the case, with recent indications suggesting that the lift may never see a restoration.
“Brighton, with its individual charm and historical significance, deserves better. The Madeira lift isn’t just a means of transportation – it’s a symbol of our city’s rich history and resilience.
“Allowing it to deteriorate along with other precious sites is simply unacceptable and a disservice to future generations who will miss out on the beauty and utility of this landmark.”
The petition calls on the council to prioritise the lift restoration by allocating money and bringing in experts as well as setting a timeline for completion.
Ms Bunker had hoped that the lift, which opened in May 1890, would be part of the second phase of restoration work for the Madeira Terraces – but is not sure when that will happen.
A modern lift has been built as part of the first phase of the restoration but has not yet opened.
Ms Bunker said: “I think it’s worth worrying about. You need things around you that are pleasant and nice.
“You can just enjoy the terraces and the lift for the sake of enjoying them rather than making mega money.”
To be debated by the council, the petition needs 1,250 signatures by Thursday (12 November). To sign it, click here.
Arent they building a new lift further along near the aquarium?
Hi Betty hope you’re well. Yes I think they are
I thought that was additional, not a replacement. It’s also hideous and completely out of place in a Victorian Grade II* Listed land pier.
It is shocking that the Council should need a petition to restore the original Victorian lift.
What is wrong with these people that they would let an iconic Brighton landmark rot?
The council don’t have money for restoring this lift. They are already under lots of pressure trying to deliver essential services. At the same time it is a shame they can’t afford to do it.
Its hoped that completetion of phase one, new lift and 28 resotored arches, will trigger funding for phase two
If we have to put up with that ugly thing they call a new design lift, and very ugly it is too,then I would hope they at least do up the lovely old lady lift so it has its glorious place in our history even if it does not work. Perhaps they could put some sort of lid on the new one so it does not look like a big pile of bricks