A petition urging two seafront lifts to be permanently repaired amid concerns about disabled access has been signed by thousands of people.

Many were shocked when Thanet District Council announced this month the lifts at Viking Bay, Broadstairs, and Eastcliff, Ramsgate, would be closed.

The authority has since reversed this decision and is trying to get them fixed by the summer season.

Barry Stickings MBE, who has a blind son called Toby, launched the petition calling for the two lifts to be permanently fixed. It has received more than 3,200 signatures.

He has demanded the district council details how much they will cost to repair, what the long-term strategy is to keep them open all year and a guarantee the council will maintain them financially.

He says the current alternative access routes for disabled visitors are not safe.

“It is really important for our area so anyone can come here and enjoy our facilities, including the beach, and not have to go down a dangerous route,” the 60-year-old added.

Christine Tongue, a member of Access Thanet’s steering group, says she has found it frustrating there has been little action on repairing the lift in Broadstairs.

“It needs to be fixed next week and I don’t see why they can’t start now to get it open for June,” the 75-year-old said.

A council spokesman said: “Whilst the provision of seaside lifts at Viking Bay and Ramsgate Main Sands are not a statutory requirement, we are doing everything we can to coordinate temporary repairs to allow them to open in time for the summer season.

“Both lifts require further extensive repair due to the age and condition of the structures and this could impact on the feasibility of keeping them operational for the whole summer season. A report will be presented to Cabinet in June outlining the extent of the issues and the associated costs in order to inform a longer-term decision.

“In the meantime, access to Ramsgate Main Sands and the lower promenade can be obtained via Harbour Parade or Marina Esplanade. The council has also installed temporary matting at the Harbour Street side of Viking Bay to lengthen the boardwalk and allow for an alternative accessible route to the beach.

“In addition, access onto the boardwalk through the Pavilion Gardens will be available when the venue is open.”

To view the petition, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet