Updated press release which replaces the word 'sandblasting' with 'garnet blasting' which is the eco-friendly process being used to strip the railings.
A section of the iconic cast iron seafront railings will be restored back to its former glory as our seafront maintenance programme continues.
During August, specialist contractors will begin stripping around 300 metres of railings, west of the Meeting Place café on Hove seafront.
Using a process known as 'garnet blasting' the railings will be stripped back to their bare metal, to remove a build-up of old paint and create a clean surface for repainting.
It will also reveal original details, including the Martlets of the Sussex County emblem, which are cast into the central circle of each panel.
This new specialist approach to refurbishing the cast-iron railings was chosen following several trials of paint systems and preparation methods. It offers a longer-lasting finish than other methods, which is particularly beneficial in the most exposed seafront locations, such as sections of Hove seafront.
The railings will be covered while this work is carried out.
The work is scheduled to start on10 August and is due to be completed by September when the first phase of the programme will pause over the autumn/winter. This phase will also include restoration of the shelter opposite Waterloo Street.
Phase 2 will begin next spring when the air temperature starts to increase and winter storms have passed.
Councillor David McGregor, Cabinet Member for Economy, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said: “It’s great to be starting work on restoring our iconic seafront railings and we’re excited to see what lies beneath the many layers of paint!
“Maintaining the seafront is an ongoing challenge and projects like restoring the railings are a huge undertaking. But by taking a section at a time and working with specialists we can ensure that this important part of our heritage is properly restored and preserved for future generations.”
The restoration project is part of the council’s current programme of maintenance and improvement work along the seafront to keep it looking spectacular, welcoming and fit for the future.
Earlier this year, eleven of the distinctive cucumber benches along Hove seafront were restored and repainted, with help and support from volunteers.
Councillor McGregor added: “Residents are always hugely supportive of our maintenance projects and we are extremely grateful to the volunteers who worked alongside the contractors to restore the cucumber benches.
“Once the current project has been completed, we’d love to hear from any community groups interested in adopting a stretch of railing, or a restored shelter, and undertaking minor maintenance to the paintwork to help keep them looking clean and tidy.”
The maintenance programme also sits alongside major regeneration and restoration projects already in progress, including Madeira Terrace, Hove Beach Park and wider coastal and public realm improvements.
Together, these projects aim to protect the seafront’s heritage while improving its appearance, accessibility and resilience for residents, businesses and visitors.
