[Retlaw]

Originally Posted by Tealeaf

.............but still no answer. Why are they called Monkey Steps? Will this be speculation or is there any substance in the form of doicumentation of whatever sort behind this?

NO, they have been called Monkey Steps as long as I've lived, not every thing gets properly documented, you'll just have to accept that although their correct name was Bank Steps, they are the Monkey Steps. Local names by Local people.
Take Bunny's back for example, its proper name was back Birtwistle St, but Bunny lived in the 1st house and kept his donkey and cart in a stable in the back. You also have a local name for another part of Birtwistle St, it was nicknamed Pinch Belly Row.

Retlaw.