A project to restore one of Whitehaven’s iconic 19th century lighthouses is now complete.
Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners has been overseeing the project to bring the North Pier and West Pier lighthouses back to their former glory.
Work on the West Pier structure is now finished, including replacing the roof structure and windows, cleaning and repainting the exterior paintwork, repairing the internal and external ironworks and replacing the beacon.
Doors and a new cable supplying power to the lighthouse have also been installed.
It is hoped that work will finish on the North Pier Lighthouse by May, including repainting and restoring the metalwork, as well as putting the new beacon in place.
The project is being funded mostly from Sellafield Ltd’s SiX programme, as well as in-kind donations people and companies.
CRS Facility Management acted as the main contractor for the work, supported by a number of other local firms including Shepley Engineers, West Cumberland Engineering, Timmins Roofing, Gates and Railings, AVRS Systems and A Tech Scaffolding.
John Baker, chief executive of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, said: “I would like to thank everybody that has worked so hard and persevered during what has been a challenging project at times.
“Everyone can now feel satisfied they have achieved something that will have tangible benefits for Whitehaven and the local community.
“The restoration of the lighthouses is part of a suite of improvements and projects around the town that will combine to make it a great place to visit, live and do business. I’m looking forward to the completion of the North Pier Lighthouse restoration next month, giving the town two historic buildings to be proud of.”
Gavin Henry, managing director of CRS Facility Management, said: “It has been a real privilege to work on such a project to bring two such prominent features of the town back to their former glory.
“We have certainly faced our fair share of challenges along the way, particularly regarding delays due to the weather and supplies of the necessary materials. However, I feel very proud of what the team has achieved.”
Gary McKeating, head of community and development at Sellafield Ltd. said: “We’re very pleased to have played our part in returning these iconic local landmarks to their former glory. A key priority of our social impact, multiplied programme is helping to ensure our communities thrive, and preserving and enhancing community assets is an important part of this.
“Most of the work has been done by local contractors to deliver something that can now be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many more years to come. I’m extremely grateful to them and all the partners that have supported this fantastic project.”
Retired construction manager, Trevor Prowse, who has been donating his time to manage the project said: “The team has had to overcome many challenges including weather and material supply issues but we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed being part of this historic project.”
Copeland mayor Mike Starkie said: “It’s great news to hear that the West Pier Lighthouse is now complete and work is nearly complete on the Northern Pier Lighthouse. These two enduring structures are truly beacons of light which will set the tone for many more exciting projects to come.
“I commend everyone who has worked so hard over the last few months, but this is only the beginning of more transformative developments that are on the horizon, not least The Edge Coastal Activities Centre.”
