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Maintenance works on Jacob's Ladder to start in January

Landmark listed Sidmouth structure to be closed while council carries out essential maintenance

Sidmouth’s iconic Jacob’s Ladder, which leads up to Connaught Gardens from the beach below, will be closed for two to three weeks (weather depending) from 3 January 2019, while East Devon District Council’s local contractor C Sansom Ltd undertakes essential maintenance works to the structure.

The works were identified as part of the council’s principal inspections and involved looking at all elements of the structure in close detail from a mobile working platform. The remedial works comprise the replacement of a number of treads and rails, which are starting to show signs of rot. Less urgent works, including replacing steel tie bars, which are metal rods that help to stabilise the structure and repainting of the Ladder, are also planned for early 2019.

While Jacob’s Ladder is closed for the duration of the works, the public are advised to use the nearby slipway or alternative sets of steps to reach the area below the Ladder.

The works will help ensure the longevity of the East Devon District Council owned structure, which is a Grade II Listed Building and a local landmark. Steps from the beach to the cliff top have been in this location since the 19th Century.

Cllr Tom Wright, East Devon District Council’s portfolio holder for the environment, said: “We thank the public for their patience and understanding while the council undertakes this essential maintenance to Jacobs Ladder, which we are carrying out during a period of very low usage. The future safety of users of this important feature of Sidmouth and East Devon’s coastline is our priority.”