Restoring heritage lighting on the seafront
Find out how we're restoring our heritage street lanterns.
The first 5 columns have now been removed to be transported to Cast Iron Welding Services for repair and restoration.
In total, we'll be restoring more than 80 Grade 2 listed lampposts that have been damaged by decades of exposure to harsh, salty weather conditions.
Watch how we remove the columns
Watch the video below to see how the columns are removed.
Collaboration with Historic England
We have been working closely with Historic England to ensure that the columns, brackets, and lanterns are restored in a manner that preserves their historic appearance and character. They have approved our plan, which includes using original designs, manufacturing techniques, and materials wherever possible.
Removing the first 5 columns, which will be placed back in their exact locations in the spring, will set the foundation for the rest of the project.
Funding and timeline
The project is funded by a combination of:
- the council’s Carbon Neutral Fund
- capital funding
- remaining funds from a project to install LED lights in the city’s streetlighting
The total cost of the project is expected to be around £4 million. The project will take several years to complete.
The first 5 columns were removed for restoration in September 2025. They are due to return to their original positions, with new lanterns, in early 2026.
Restoration process
We're collaborating with industry experts, some of whom are already supporting the Madeira Terrace arches project, to restore the columns and prevent further weathering.
Each column has been individually logged to ensure it's placed back in its original location once restored.
Cast Iron Welding Services
Cast Iron Welding Services will:
- transport the columns to their foundry restoration facility
- carefully remove historic lead-based paint
- disassemble and inspect for damage
- repair any fractures or corrosion
- apply a new protective coating
CU Phosco
CU Phosco will manufacture new lanterns, honouring the historical significance and design of the original manufacturer.
They have conducted rigorous testing, including salt spraying, to ensure the materials withstand the harsh seafront environment.
Modern efficiency
We'll install the latest energy-efficient LED lighting, including replicating the current colour temperature and brightness of the original lanterns.
The lampposts are Grade II-listed, which means they have architectural and historic significance. Listed building consent has been granted for their removal and repair off-site before they are reinstated.
