'Unexpected' issues delay lifeboat station repairs

A lifeboat station will remain closed after "unexpected issues" caused a delay to repair work.

The RNLI had hoped its station in Sheringham on the north Norfolk coast would be operating again by the end of the summer but the reopening is now expected to be pushed back to next year.

It was closed in January 2025 because of serious safety concerns related to the condition of the building itself and also the unstable cliffs behind it.

The RNLI said it "understands how frustrating this is" but reassured beach goers that the section of the coast would be covered by the neighbouring lifeboat stations in Cromer and Wells-next-the-Sea.

Gavin Bartley, North and East regional estates lead for the RNLI, said: "We had hoped to finish the work at Sheringham RNLI lifeboat station by the end of the summer.

"However, further structural issues uncovered during an investigatory building condition survey mean that completion is now unexpectedly delayed.

"We understand how frustrating this is. But we are determined to ensure that the building work is comprehensive and carried out in a proper manner.

"This is to ensure the lifeboat station is robust and fit-for-purpose for the next 25 years."

Sheringham's crew, which operates the 'Odd Fellows' Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, had conducted trials to see if it could be launched from Cromer's lifeboat stations last summer.

But the crew is now training on a new boat while the station is out of action.

North Norfolk District Council, which owns the promenade where the lifeboat station is located and leases the land to the RNLI, said it is "working closely" with the charity to reopen it.

It has been told work to install a new steel frame and concrete is due to commence in July 2026 and that the station could be open by May 2027.

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