Work to prepare Madeira Terrace for restoration is continuing. Detailed assessments of the condition of the Victorian cast iron spandrels and balustrades, the terrace’s foundations, and the soil conditions below the deck feeding the Green Wall, are informing the detailed tender that will go out to potential contractors this summer.
This has been ongoing since planning permission was granted for Phase 1 of the renovation scheme last November.
Work to dismantle the historic cast iron arches for restoration at Madeira Terrace will start in Spring 2024. Extensive surveying and testing of the structure has confirmed that work on the decorative spandrels can go ahead as planned.
In the current climate of building cost inflation, this investigation work is crucial to ensure the renovation of this iconic landmark can be completed to a high standard and one which can withstand its seafront climate for years to come.
It is important in ensuring that Phase 1 of the renovation can be completed within the budget set.
Councillor Julie Cattell, member of the Culture, Heritage, Sport, Tourism & Economic Development Committee said: “Preparatory works at Madeira Terrace have already begun and are ongoing.
"This is a really important project for the city and I'm looking forward to getting on site to see the progress being made.
“We will soon be looking for the right contractor with the skills required to deliver high quality restoration work. When the contractor has been appointed, they will produce a programme for the works needed to restore the structure.
“The construction sector remains volatile and with an unusual project such as this one it is important that we take the time to get the best outcome for this important stage of works.
“This will be agreed when they are appointed in the autumn.
Further soil testing has taken place around Madeira Terrace recently. Sampling of the soils took place along the section of wall from the Royal Crescent Steps to Concorde 2.
Building on investigations carried out in May, these tests are helping us to better understand the ground conditions below the deck. The findings will assist with understanding the soil nutrients required for the Green Wall restoration so there are favourable conditions for plants to recolonise the wall once the restoration work is finished.
In January specialist contractors surveyed the condition of the East Cliff wall ahead of temporary propping works to the arches.
This work was followed by investigations into the foundations in six areas of the terrace to show whether additional foundation support work would be required for the structure.
In April testing of the Victorian cast iron began to determine the condition of the iron without damaging the structure. We have committed to conserving as much of the existing cast iron elements as possible through the renovation as far as possible and will only recast the iron where absolutely necessary.