Historic England has pledged £750,000 to restore Madeira Terrace in Brighton, a Grade II* listed Victorian landmark. The funding will help launch the renovation of 28 of the 151 iconic cast iron arches as part of Brighton & Hove City Council’s multimillion-pound project.
Phase 1 of the project includes the restoration of the ornate arches and bays, along with the installation of a new, fully accessible lift. The start date is expected to be announced soon.
Madeira Terrace, a 865-metre-long covered promenade, was added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2020 due to its deteriorating condition. Designed between 1890 and 1897, the structure was once a focal point for seaside visitors, offering stunning sea views and connecting the city’s new terraced homes to the beach.
Chris Ward, MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “The restoration of Madeira Terrace is hugely important, not just for preserving our unique heritage, but for revitalizing the east of the seafront. Historic England’s support is a crucial step in bringing this much-loved landmark back to its former glory.”
The restoration has already garnered public support, with a £440,000 crowdfunding drive in 2017. Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, added, “We’re committed to restoring Madeira Terrace as soon as possible, and this funding marks a significant step forward.”
Madeira Terrace’s ornate ironwork features intricate marine-inspired designs, including the faces of Poseidon and Aphrodite. The restoration will return this architectural gem to its former glory, ensuring its place in Brighton’s vibrant seafront for future generations.
Key Highlights:
- Funding: £750,000 from Historic England.
- Phase 1: Restoring 28 arches and installing a new lift.
- Heritage Status: Listed as Grade II* and added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2020.
- Architectural Importance: The terrace is the longest continuous cast iron structure in Britain.
- Community Involvement: £440,000 raised through crowdfunding in 2017.
This project marks a turning point for the future of Brighton’s seafront, preserving the city’s Victorian charm while creating new public spaces for residents and visitors alike.
