South Tyneside Council working to support The Grotto after it was forced to close

The Grotto, on the Coast Road, in Marsden, announced on Friday that it had been served a prohibition notice that meant it had to close immediately.

In their statement, the iconic South Tyneside venue said that both the Council and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) had served the notice.

However, the Gazette understands that it was TWFRS and not South Tyneside Council.

The notice was served on the venue due to ongoing survey works at the steps, which lead down the cliff face to Marsden Bay.

With the steps being closed for survey work, it means that there is no safe escape route for customers at The Grotto in the event of a fire due to the Redwell Bank steps being tidal dependent.

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Neighbourhoods and Climate Change at South Tyneside Council, has confirmed that the local authority is working with The Grotto to support them during the closure period.

He said: “First and foremost, this is about keeping people safe.

“We know how upsetting this is for the Marsden Grotto team and for customers who’ve made plans, particularly so close to Christmas.

“The steps at Marsden were closed last week after safety concerns were identified.

“We’ve put barriers and signage in place and arranged specialist inspections so we can fully understand the issues and what remedial works may be required.

“We’re in close contact with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and the business, and we will do everything we reasonably can to support them through the next steps.

“Where the beach is concerned, people should follow on‑site safety signs and be aware that alternative access via Redwell Bank steps is tide‑dependent.

“We’ll share further updates as soon as we have clear information on timescales.”

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TWFRS has stated that the decision to issue the notice wasn’t “taken lightly” and was a last resort to the Fire Service.

A spokesperson for TWFRS commented: “On Wednesday 10th December, following notification from South Tyneside Council that the external means of escape staircase at Marsden Grotto is unsafe for use, we have issued a prohibition notice at the premises due to inadequate means of escape in the event of fire.

“Prohibition notices are only served as a last resort when there are immediate concerns for public safety.

“We understand the impact this has on the premises, and we do not take this action lightly.

“We continue to work closely with the premises to explore potential solutions and ensure that appropriate fire safety arrangements are in place.”