A bid for funding is set to be made in attempts to try and save a historic seaside lift.

The future of the Leas Lift, in Lower Sandgate Road, Folkestone, was uncertain earlier this week when the operating company said it was "calling it a day" due to financial difficulties.

The Leas Lift Community Interest Company (LLCIC) took over its running in 2010, but were unable to front £80,000 costs for a new braking system - a task that had to be carried out before March.

The Health and Safety Executive branded the current braking system "unreliable and prone to failure."

But this morning a meeting with interested parties saw a more positive future for the Grade II* listed asset.

MP Damian Collins, leader of Shepway District Council (SDC) Cllr David Monk, Phillip Clapham on behalf of the owners Radnor Estate, Paul Hudson from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Peter Bettley, who represents Roger DeHaan, all met up, along with Terry Begent from the LLCIC.

They have agreed that officers at SDC will work to produce a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund so that the new braking system can be installed.

But before this happens a full review of the site will be undertaken so that any potential faults can be accounted for.

Mr Collins said: "We have decided we will work together to support a major bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund to bring the lift up to standard as far as the Health and Safety Executive are concerned.

"But it is not just about bringing it to standard, but developing it as a heritage asset.

"SDC are offering the time of their officers to help to prepare the case and they have a lot of experience.

"They will work with the owners, the Radnor Estate, and that is what we think is the best way forward to make the lift sustainable for the future."