Gorleston White Lion steps expected to reopen this week

The White Lion Steps, which connect Cliff Hill and Beach Road, have been in a state of disrepair since a landslip in 2012.

In May this year, Norfolk County Council began repair work on the walkway.

The area was originally due to reopen on September 6, and then on September 20, but the work was delayed over an issue connecting the back wall drain to the existing sewer.

The wait could soon be over, though, as Councillor Graham Plant, who represents Gorleston St Andrews at County Hall, has said it is hoped the steps will open again on Friday, October 4.

Graham Plant, borough councillor, has said the reopening of the White Lion Steps will give Gorleson its dignity back. (Image: Submitted) READ MORE: Four-month £600k works to repair landslip destruction in Norfolk town

In a post on Facebook, he said: "I think it looks great, and it will be fantastic to have both sides of the steps safe, open, and looking the part."

The restored steps will "give Gorleston some of its dignity back", he said.

Mr Plant thanked Colin Thurnell and the bridge building team who worked hard to overcome the ownership issues and the complications of working in a constrained space.

He also thanked Ron Upton and the campaigners who gave the impetus and drive to the project, which helped in securing the funding and persuading officers the town needed the steps restored for future generations.

Cliff Hill and Beach Road have been closed since May to allow the work be carried out.

READ MORE: Gorleston wall collapse - probe says ‘build up of water’ was cause

The state of the White Lion steps has long been a source of frustration for locals.

The landmark have been a prominent feature in the area, along with Admiral Duncan's waterpipe, since the Napoleonic Wars.

In April 2012, the footway suffered a landslip which narrowly missed a 12-year-old boy.