Folkestone Leas Lift: Funicular to reopen as fundraising target reached

A Victorian funicular is to reopen after a fundraising target for its restoration was reached.

The Leas Lift in Folkestone will be relaunched in 2025 after £4.8m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund was secured.

It means the £6.6m needed for repairs on the attraction has now been reached.

The Leas Lift Company said the funicular, which closed in 2017 due to issues with its brakes, would be "restored to its former glory".

The 138-year-old, Grade II* listed structure is one of only three water-balanced lifts to survive in the UK.

It provides transport from the Leas to the seafront and the Lower Coastal Park.

Cathy Beare, from the Folkestone Leas Lift Company, said: "This is a huge win for us. We can't wait to welcome passengers back.

"People tell me the hard work starts now, although it certainly feels like we are well on the road to success."

Eilish McGuinness, from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "This community-led scheme absolutely delivers our vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future."

Construction is due to begin in 2024.

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