Fossil Garden Project completed

Work on Saltburn's Top Promenade was celebrated yesterday as organisers cut the ribbon to mark the completion of the environmental improvements at the site. The project, headed by community group Saltburn Forward, has increased access to the Cliff Lift for users with mobility difficulties. The top prom now has an access ramp to the lift, an improved flight of steps, railings and benches. Two sculptures, two telescopes and lighting are still to come. Saltburn Forward was set up in partnership with Groundwork South Tees, which secured funding over a number of years to improve the area. And with funds provided by Impetus Waste Management, a fossil garden has also been created. Local artist Andrew McKeown worked with pupils from Huntcliff School to design the garden, in a new landscaped area on the site. Ashok Kumar, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: "I am really pleased to see the plans have become a reality. In the past, I have had a lot of representation about the need for disabled access in Saltburn. This project will provide full mobility to residents and visitors to the area and is a great example of partnership working."
Many local residents remain skeptical about the development of the site as other access pathways to the Lower Promenade remain closed and continue to deteriorate. The Cliff Lift has seen an increase in usage and council revenue following the closure of cliff paths following storm damage and landslip and the local authority continues to come under criticism about the apparent neglect of Saltburn's prime assest - the sea front.

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