This is how much Scarborough Council will have to pay to repair Whitby's storm-damaged chalets

The cost of repairing Whitby’s historic beach chalets which were damaged earlier this year by a tidal swell has been revealed.
Whitby's storm-damaged chalets.Whitby's storm-damaged chalets.
Whitby's storm-damaged chalets.

In the early hours of October 1, 72 chalets in the town were damaged, with 12 of them destroyed completely.

Scarborough Council has now revealed that the cost of repairs will be around £90,000 and has also confirmed that the money will come out of its own funds.

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A report that went before the authority’s cabinet today, stated: “The tidal swell was caused by unusual conditions for early October brought about by high spring tides and strong winds.

“The high tides are historically seen early in November and the strong winds were caused by the remnants of hurricane Lorenzo hitting the UK.

“Twelve chalets were damaged beyond repair and 60 chalets were left requiring replacement roofs and panelling.

“It is not economical (or sometimes possible) to insure for such damage and therefore the council self-insure through annual contributions into the insurance reserve so that funds are available for damage caused during such events.

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“Estimated costs for the damage caused are £90,000 and this includes the removal from site, storage and repair for the most severely damaged and full replacement for the 12 that were not salvageable.

“The chalets generate income of over £100,000 per year and it is therefore essential that these are replaced to protect this income stream.

“Officers will assess how it is possible to minimise the risk of such an event causing damage in the future.”

The brightly coloured huts are popular with residents and holidaymakers with prices ranging between £600 to £1,300 annually for some of the structures.

The cabinet today agreed to approve the money from its insurance fund to pay for the works.