Very likely, leeneia - but Jill is a Grade I Listed Building, which means that, while parts can be replaced, they have to be replaced "as is" - without alteration to the design. Official Health & Safety recommendations have a certain weight - but not in this case!

So, for example, when the sweeps are painted, they're painted with white lead paint. Lead paint, being poisonous, cannot now be purchased by the general public - but we're allowed to purchase it for painting Jill's sweeps!

I'm happy to say that we advise all visitors to descend the stairs backwards - and we've never had a fall yet in 20 years. The interior ladders are even steeper, and we tell - NOT just advise - visitors that they MUST descend those backwards. And, once again, no falls yet.