Concrete plans for steps (From Penarth Times)

Concrete plans for steps

PENARTH local councillor, Anthony Ernest, has expressed his delight at news that the public concrete steps from the Esplanade bastions to the beach at Penarth, are set to be repaired.

It follows complaints from local people that they are a danger to the public. Cllr Ernest was approached by residents concerned at how the steps had been eroded by the sea.

He immediately took up the matter with the Vale Council's Head of Engineering Design, who agreed to look at the hazards caused by the worn-away treads.

The council has confirmed that a scheme is being prepared to refurbish the several flights of steps, which lead down to the pebble beach.

Cllr Ernest said: "I am delighted that these steps are to receive early attention, so that the possibility of the danger of falls by youngsters and the elderly, can be averted at this popular spot. I expect these works to be undertaken soon by the Vale."

The set of steps nearest to the promenade were recently blocked off, and are out of use, after they were declared a health hazard.

Cllr Ernest explained that a member of the public could have easily caught their foot between the crooked shallow steps, and been injured.

The esplanade is within the conservation area, and so any alterations made are strictly controlled.

Cllr Ernest went on: "It is important for facilities to be in good working order." He explained that when local landmarks are restored, such as the pier, the existing pattern must be maintained, in keeping with the rest of the area.

He has also asked officers to look at the possibility of repairing the hand grips in the sea wall, or replace them with a ladder, which would provide an escape route, in the event of an individual being cut off by a high tide.

The steps which lead from the Esplanade into Windsor Gardens have recently been reopened, after being closed for several years, due to their poor condition.

The railings were suffering from rust, and the gates needed repainting.

The steps have know been restored to their former glory, and the route now acts as a shortcut for the many local walkers in the area.