Madeira Terraces Restoration - Phase 1

Madeira Terrace is a well-known and much-loved Brighton and Hove Landmark. At 865m long in total it is one of the longest cast-iron structures in the world and an admired piece of Victorian architecture, integral to the Eastern Seafront. It is also a significant Grade 2* listed structure within the rich heritage context of the wider coastal city. Phase 1 of the Madeira Terrace Restoration project encompasses 40nr arches sitting between the Royal Crescent steps and the Shelter Hall / Concord 2.

The cast iron structure forms a backbone describing the historic development of the seafront. Addressing the sea and the beach firmly braced against the rising East Cliff wall rising behind. It is a 'backdrop': designed and intended to be used and inhabited by the residents of the city for all manner of events and social occasions; for quiet enjoyment, outdoor exercise and for viewing.

The structure is now deemed unsafe and public access has not been possible for a number of years, due its condition.

The Phase 1 project includes the following elements of works:

• Conservation and repair of the historic cast iron structure.
• Conservation and management of the historic Japanese Spindle green wall [dating from 1872], and other planting associated with the Green Wall.
• Repairs to the facing of the east cliff-wall (a designated highways structure) to ensure public safety; and re-presentation of its surface to visually unify and present a more attractive backdrop to the restored structure.
• Public realm landscaping to both the terrace deck above and the promenade walkway below, including new hard surfacing, soft landscaping and street furniture.
• Local improvement to Madeira Drive, via new pedestrian crossing points.
• New lighting and servicing infrastructure
• Repairs and upgrades to the existing lift mechanism within the Shelter Hall / Concorde 2 building, to allow its continued historic function as the original means of step-free access to the terrace.
• A new external public lift