Lift replacement programme in council properties

Our plan for modernising or replacing lifts

Since 2011 we've invested in modernising or replacing 67 lifts on housing sites across the city.

We're modernising or replacing lifts because:

• a number of lifts in the city are old and unreliable, expensive and difficult to maintain - modernising or replacing lifts should mean fewer breakdowns and a more reliable service for residents
• compared to the older lift stock, the new lifts will be faster, smoother and more environmentally friendly in line with the council's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030
• where existing building conditions allow, all new lifts will be big enough to fit most mobility scooters making them more accessible

Lifts planned for replacement or major modernisation during 2023 to 2024

• 3 lifts serving 1 to 54 Livingstone House, Hove

Lift replacement or modernisation works for 2024 onwards are subject to ongoing review. We will show the works on this page when up to date condition surveys on lifts have been carried out and reviewed.

How the lift service will be affected while the work is carried out

Where there are two lifts in a building, we will replace them one at a time.

Where the old lift serves alternate floors, some floors will not be served until we have replaced the first lift.

We apologise for any inconvenience and recognise this will cause hardship for some residents. Members of our project management team, Housing Officers and Seniors Housing Scheme Managers are available to help out where they can.

If you or someone you know, needs help send an email to the Council Housing team.

How long the work will take

This depends on how many floors and how many lifts the block has.

The average time for the replacement of two lifts in a 12 storey building is about 40 weeks.

Prior to replacement or modernisation work begins, we'll hold a meeting with residents. We'll let you know how long it's expected to take and give you regular updates.

Noise and mess

Lift installation work are construction projects which cause unavoidable noise. We will consult with residents about any noisy phase of work. Work will be carried out during normal working hours. The engineers will do this as quickly and efficiently as they can to minimise the disruption and impact on residents.

There will also be dust and debris generated by the works but our contractors will keep the site safe, clean and tidy.

What happens if the only lift in service breaks down

We'll treat it as an emergeny and make every effort to restore the service as soon as possible. Housing officers and Senior Housing Scheme Managers will be available to assist anyone that needs help.

There will be engineers on site, doing the replacement works on the new lift and they will attend to the breakdown immediately.

As we take out the old lifts we are saving any useful spare parts. This puts us in a better position to repair the existing old stock and helps to reduce the time spent on waiting for replacement parts.

Where to find out more

If you have any other questions, you can raise them at the first meeting for your block before the work starts.

You can also send an email to the Housing Investment and Asset Management Team.