Regarding the request for the lift to be opened at weekends in Winter and Autumn On the 10th Sept I attended the TDC meeting where I was able to put a question to the council and I would be given a response. But due to rules I was not allowed to respond to the answer given by Cllr Steve Albon. I have also contacted our local MP Polly Billington, this was her response

"Thank you for writing to Polly about your campaign to have the lift operational all year round and achieve disabled access to the beach.Polly is fully supportive of achieving better accessibility to the beach in Broadstairs all year round for residents and visitors with disabilities.  And is in regular conversation with local TDC Cllrs, relevant Cabinet members, businesses and community groups about viable options to improve access to the beach all year round.

It is noted that Cllr Kristian Bright has committed to bringing the annual maintenance schedule forward February so that the Broadstairs lift is operational for Spring and Summer seasons.
Office for Polly Billington MP

Member of Parliament for East Thanet

and Cllr Kristian Brigh his response has been previously posted.  

Councillor Albon gave this response which although few reasons were given he did state they would look at the 2026/27 budget. You can view this via this link from min 12.55-15.46 https://democracy.thanet.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=141&MId=7057&Ver=4

I have contacted Cllr Albon to request a meeting to discuss this matter.

This was his response

"There will be additional expenditure required to open the lift during Autumn and winter months an operator would need to be employed to open and close the lift and sweep the sand out oof the lift to ensure the lift does not fail from increased sand movement in the winter weather. Opening and closing the lift and sweeping ruin spring and summer months is done by the seasonal bay inspector. Further additional budget would need to be considered if the lift is operated year round as this will lead to greater maintenance and frequency of failure due to increased use and the reduced lifespan of parts. This pressure has not been included in the 2025/26 budget but could be and I am happy to consider for 2026/27 process"

I will update with more information when I get it if you feel strongly about this issue you can address it with either Polly Billington MP or Cllr Albon you can do so via the emails below 

cllr-steve.albon@thanet.gov.uk

polly.billington.mp@parliament.uk