Whitehaven West Pier closed after storm damages lighthouse cable

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 15:00 · Archive

Whitehaven's West Pier remains closed after storm damage to the cable powering its lighthouse.

Whitehaven's West Pier remains closed to the public following storm damage to the cable that powers the lighthouse. Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners said the closure will remain in place until the cable no longer poses a hazard.

The damaged cable has fallen into the water. Initial testing suggests it might still be usable as a temporary solution if it can be safely recovered and passes further checks. However, the cable weighs between 1.5 and two tonnes and requires specialist lifting equipment. The operation cannot be rushed and is dependent on suitable weather conditions.

Even if power is restored using the existing cable, it would only be a short-term fix. The pier would need to close again when a replacement cable is installed. Commissioners said most people have complied with the closure notice, though the majority of those ignoring it have been adults. Younger visitors have been praised for understanding the risks and following the restrictions.

How it is being reported

• Pier stays closed as storm-damaged cable poses hazardWhitehaven’s West Pier remains closed after storm damage, while Harbour Commissioners work to safely restore lighthouse power and remove a hazardous cable.News & Star · 3 Nov, 14:29
• Pier stays closed as storm-damaged cable poses hazardWhitehaven’s West Pier remains closed after storm damage, while Harbour Commissioners work to safely restore lighthouse power and remove a hazardous cable.Whitehaven News · 3 Nov, 14:29

In this story: Whitehaven · West Pier · Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log