Plymouth’s iconic Smeaton’s Tower is to get a new set of lights to enable the tower to shine in the darkness as part of a planned programme of work.
Over £7 million has been allocated to tackle a backlog of maintenance and repairs on some of the Council’s buildings and assets.
The funding will cover three years and will enable the council’s facilities management team to address some long issues on properties – some of which have caused by the elements.
The tower’s exposed location has meant that the lighting system has reached the end of its life.
The system was installed in 2015 and illuminated the whole tower at night. It has been used on countless occasions to acknowledge significant dates and events in Plymouth.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member with responsibility for assets said: “Smeaton’s Tower is the symbol of Britain’s Ocean City and lighting this tower is very important to Plymouth and its residents.
“We also know that lighting helps makes people feel safer, so it makes sense to prioritise a new lighting system on the Hoe.”
The old system is now obsolete and parts are hard to come by. A new system is being ordered and all being well, the new system could be activated within the next two months.
Chris added: “We have carried out a review covering almost every aspect of buildings from industrial estates to offices.
“It’s been a challenge prioritising work, but these projects are important to the people who use them and work in them. Taking a longer-term approach will help the team better plan activities and allow them to enter into longer-term contracts to reduce costs.”
Other work includes:
- West Hoe Pier – second phase of planned structural works and rectification following storm damage
- Devonport Library – historical damp coming in from the roof and walls
- Central Library – flat roof replacement
- Plympton Pool Car Park – repairs to car park surface
- Prince Rock depot – upgrades to fire alarm
A series of upgrades is also planned for Chelson Meadow household waste recycling centre which will see improvements to staff welfare facilities, an electrical upgrade and resurfacing the areas around the bays.
The creation of a three-year programme of work follows an intensive internal review over the last 12 months to help prioritise work across the council’s estate and increase capacity within the team.
The programme should also speed up delivery times and improve operational responsiveness.
The executive decision authorises £7,250,000 into the capital programme to cover the next three years. This will be funded by corporate borrowing.
