'Landmark' steps to stay closed until further notice

A Grade II-listed "landmark" in Devon is to remain closed until further notice following a recent structural inspection.

Jacob's Ladder Steps, in Sidmouth, required a specialist repair, East Devon District Council said, to protect its historic character as well as its structural integrity.

The council said public safety was its priority and it was taking a "careful, considered approach to ensure the steps can be repaired appropriately and brought back into use when it was safe to do so".

It said Jacob's Ladder was an important and "valued local landmark" and was a well-used access route.

In a post on social media, the council said: "We are working closely with structural timber specialists and the EDDC [East Devon District Council] Conservation Team to review the inspection findings in detail, confirm the most suitable repair method, and make sure any works are undertaken to the correct standard.

"We appreciate everyone's continued patience while this work progresses."

The local authority added it would provide a further update as soon as it was able to share more information.

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