Caves Road Arches

From Historical Hastings
Caves Road Arches

A common misconception is that the brick arched structure to the rear of properties in Caves Road were used for tuberculosis patients in the hospital behind them on West Hill Road to get air. This is incorrect - the arches being merely, perhaps, an over-engineered structure to stabilise the cliffs behind.

The construction date of the structure is as yet unknown, but certainly within the 20th century, the arches not being visible in a Broderick photograph dated to 1905. It is possible that they were constructed post WW2, for there is reference to the Marina Fountain being damaged by rock falls in 1939[1], with some references to the brickwork concealing cave entrances including possibly those of the St. Leonards Caves.

1905 photograph.

References & Notes

  1. Marina Fountain and Marina Inn: Marina Fountain and Marina Inn, accessdate: 4 May 2021