I have watched in sadness the Madeira lift fall slowly into disrepair. Once a vital part of our community's heritage, this iconic structure now sits neglected, a reminder of the lack of commitment to preserving our local history. When the advisory panel for the Madeira Arches restoration convened, we were promised the lift would be restored in the future but the priority was an  accessible lift to be built first. Unfortunately, this doesn’t now seem to be the case, with recent indications suggesting that the lift may never see a restoration.

Brighton, with its individual charm and historical significance, deserves better. The Madeira lift isn't just a means of transportation—it’s a symbol of our city’s rich history and resilience. Allowing it to deteriorate along with other precious sites is simply unacceptable and a disservice to future generations who will miss out on the beauty and utility of this landmark.

The Madeira lift, originally designed for ease of access to Madeira Drive and the beach now remains as an echo of its vibrant past. 

Inaction leads us down the path we've tread too many times—watching Brighton's heritage slowly disappear when viable solutions exist. Brighton & Hove City Council must prioritise the restoration of the Madeira lift as part of the broader initiative to revamp the Madeira Arches. This means allocating funds, engaging restoration experts, and setting a timeline for completion. These are actionable steps that, with community support, can bring the lift back into operation and renew a cherished part of our seafront.

Join me in calling upon our local leaders to honour their commitment to the Madeira lift and ensure its restoration. Together, we can protect our heritage and breathe life back into one of Brighton’s architectural gems. Please sign the petition to support the restoration of the Madeira lift.