Historic seawall lights are enhanced with modern efficiency delivering over 50 percent energy savings

The iconic Sandbanks seawall lighting, steeped in over a century of history, are restored with a modern brilliance, thanks to a collaborative project led by the Society for Poole and supported by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, and implemented by British manufacturer Acrospire and Volker Highways.

The Sandbanks seawall lighting columns, erected in 1895, stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. Originally designed to use methane from a nearby sewer for illumination, they have weathered the years with grace. Although decorative rather than essential for road lighting, these lamps hold immense historical significance.

The Society for Poole, dedicated to preserving local history and culture, secured £42,000 from the BCP Council to kickstart the first phase of the lamps’ restoration. The collaborative effort involved removing, repairing, and repainting the cast iron bases, with a meticulous focus on maintaining authenticity.

Acrospire collaborated with Volker Highways, the project contractor, and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council to integrate modern LED technology while respecting the lamps’ historical charm. The goal was to refurbish the lighting elements efficiently and ensure maximum energy efficiency.

The restoration project involved converting the existing 70W SON lanterns to 40W LED, employing the Acrospire Comfort COB 3000K light engine. This choice not only achieved energy savings of over 50 percent but also provided a low-glare, pedestrian-friendly illumination that complemented the luminaires’ original era. The 3000K colour temperature added a warm glow, maintaining the heritage aesthetic.

Daniel Moorley, Street Lighting Team Leader Infrastructure, Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council, states, “The new lanterns went up recently and they look really good on the refurbed columns. The Society for Poole are really pleased with the results.”

With BCP Lighting coordinating efforts, the luminaires received a comprehensive overhaul. The meticulous refurbishment involved stripping away old paint, recasting elements, and testing to recapture the lanterns’ original splendour.

As Sandbanks’ historic luminaires shine proudly once again, they not only reclaim their position as iconic landmarks but also contribute to the area’s overall aesthetic appeal.

Daniel comments, “The project was a long-term programme to cover all 20 of the columns and lights.” Acrospire’s work ensures that these timeless luminaires continue to frame the approach to Sandbanks, seamlessly blending history with modernity and efficiency.”