A historic seafront lift has sold above its guide price after going up at auction.

The former Western Undercliff lift in Ramsgate, which is Grade II-listed, has not been used for many years but the shaft and engine house remain.

It is based between the Westcliff promenade, opposite the Look Out Café and the roundabout with the Royal Harbour approach and Military Road.

The freehold guide price for the lift was £20,000-plus but today it sold for £31,000.

Before the online sale, auctioneer Kevin Gilbert said: "The lift is thought to have been designed by Sir John Burnet and partners in 1926.

"The shaft comprises a central panel infilled with coloured glass and the sale includes the engine house with the old machinery.

"In its day the lift could carry 20 passengers and is certainly a building that makes a statement.

"It’ll be interesting to see who bids and what their plans might be for this structure."

The distinctive art deco lift was among 125 lots listed for sale by Clive Emson, the land and property auctioneers.

The former Western Undercliff Cafe and toilets - which include planning permission for redevelopment - also went under the hammer, selling for £600,000.

The scheme includes a new café and toilets, eight flats with balconies and sea views as well as a rooftop bar and restaurant.

The flats would be a mix of two- and three- bedroom apartments and the design harks back slightly to the area’s art deco heyday.

Auction appraiser Jon Rimmer said: "This is a proposed development that will bring much needed accommodation as well as a café and restaurant/bar.

"The present building is empty and covered in graffiti so this building will be a major upgrade to the ever-improving Thanet coastline."

Ambitious plans for the beachfront flats and a cliff-top restaurant were abandoned due to a row between the developer and the council.

Western Undercliff Ltd was given permission in December to construct a "landmark" five-storey building in Ramsgate, including a café and public amenities.

But Tim Burt, a partner for the firm, claimed earlier this year Thanet District Council refused permission for an over-sail on the building - which would hang over an authority-owned pavement - on financial grounds.

In a petition document set up by Mr Burt, he said the council insisted on further contributions, but turned down an offer from the developer totalling more than £70,000.

He claimed Western Undercliff Ltd has "no choice" but to abandon plans due to the authority "blocking" the scheme.

However, Thanet District Council denied this, stating it wants it to proceed and that they are trying to resolve a "complex set of issues".

The freehold guide price for the lot was £500,000 to £550,000.