Contractor announced as Madeira Terrace restoration plans move forward

Civil engineering contractor JT Mackley & Co. has been appointed by Brighton & Hove City Council to undertake the first phase of the restoration of the Grade II* listed Madeira Terrace.

Mackley has been appointed following the launch of a public Invitation to Tender process in December 2023. After bids were formally assessed in the spring Mackley emerged as preferred bidder and commercial discussions to agree the detailed contract have now been concluded.

Councillor Jacob Taylor, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Finance and City Regeneration, said: “I am delighted to announce that Mackley has been appointed to this iconic project, and that plans are being finalised to the start the necessary preparation work on site."

“We are committed to the restoration of Madeira Terrace and are determined to proceed with it as soon as possible. Once the contractor has all the necessary machinery, equipment and materials assembled we will be able confirm when restoration work will start on site.

“We expect to be able to confirm that date later this month and are working closely with Mackley to ensure a start on site as soon as possible.”

Mackley specialises in tackling challenging schemes along our coastlines, rivers and in the water sector, delivering complex projects to protect and enhance the coastlines of the south of England. Mackley’s experience of heritage structures includes working on world heritage sites, scheduled monuments and listed buildings. In Brighton & Hove they have carried out repairs to Madeira Terrace in the past and constructed the Black Rock sea wall and link road.

Phase 1 of the restoration plan

Phase 1 of the project will see 28 of the 151 ornate arches and bays restored. It will also include:

• A new lift – a key component for the scheme that will ensure access for all
• Full replacement of the upper deck with a waterproofed deck, infrastructure for canopies / shades and for pop-up events
• Painting with a system guaranteed to perform better in coastal conditions than traditional materials available to the Victorians
• Refacing and regreening the Green Wall, although much of this will take time to recolonise
• Retaining several of the best specimens of the Japanese spindle plants, which are older than the Terrace itself
• A new staircase down from the deck near Concorde 2 / Shelter Hall
• Reinstatement of the planted verges at Madeira Drive level
• A more pedestrian friendly layout in front of the Terrace, providing beach access for all and including two new crossing points, and
• Restoration of the original seating to the upper deck encouraging people to sit and enjoy the views.

The new lift will provide 24-hour access and be capable of being used by all.

Increased funding

Earlier this month Historic England announced a £750,000 grant towards the first phase of the restoration.

Councillor Taylor added: “The restoration of Madeira Terrace is an ambitious and unique project. Following the backing we have received from Historic England this month, the announcement of Mackley as our partner to deliver this first phase is another important step forward.

“I am excited at the prospect of seeing the rebirth of this iconic structure, and for the Terrace to once again play a role in the lives of so many – not just those of us that call Brighton &Hove home, but also the many millions who visit our city each year.”

Mackley Managing Director Ben Hamer said: “We are delighted to be given this opportunity to support the regeneration of this heritage Victorian structure. As a local contractor, founded in Shoreham in 1927, our staff feel a strong connection to Brighton & Hove and enjoy making our contribution to the future of the region.”

Read more about the Madeira Terrace restoration project.