MADEIRA TERRACE RESTORATION 27
MADEIRA TERRACE RESTORATION
The Madeira Terrace restoration project in Brighton is one of the UK’ s most significant heritage engineering programmes, combining structural conservation, public realm improvements and accessibility upgrades along the city’ s historic seafront.
Major restoration works are progressing on Brighton’ s Grade II * listed Madeira Terrace, the Victorian cast iron structure stretching along the eastern seafront below Marine Parade. The project, led by Brighton & Hove City Council, aims to restore and reopen sections of the terrace that have remained closed to the public since 2012 due to structural deterioration and safety concerns.
Originally constructed between 1890 and 1897 to designs by borough surveyor Philip C. Lockwood, Madeira Terrace is recognised as one of the longest cast iron structures in the UK. The structure includes 151 decorative arches, covered walkways, staircases and the historic Madeira Lift, forming a prominent part of Brighton’ s seafront identity and heritage townscape.
The current phase of restoration focuses on the repair and reinstatement of 28 arches between the Royal Crescent Steps and Concorde 2. This first stage also includes construction of a new accessible lift tower designed to improve step-free access between Madeira Drive and Marine Parade.
Engineering works have involved dismantling sections of the original cast iron structure to allow detailed off-site inspection, repair and testing. During 2025, 27 arches were removed as part of the restoration process, with specialist structural testing undertaken to determine whether original cast iron elements could be safely reused.
Project updates issued by Brighton & Hove City Council confirmed that additional testing was required after initial assessments of certain cast iron elements proved inconclusive. Subsequent testing demonstrated that much of the original material could be retained and reused within the restored structure, supporting the project’ s heritage-led conservation approach.
Alongside restoration of the ironwork, extensive structural repairs are being undertaken to the retaining wall behind the terrace. These works are essential to stabilise the structure and support reinstatement of the restored arches and promenade deck. New foundations and infrastructure associated with the accessible lift installation are also progressing on site.
The restoration programme places significant emphasis on environmental and heritage conservation. Brighton & Hove City Council has stated that reusing original cast iron components where possible reduces waste and lowers
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