Let there be light: And there was light

Let there be light: And there was light

Community Campaigner David Barton has spoken of his delight after learning that scheduled works to restore the Grade II Ornamental Lamp Posts dating back to the 1840s along a historic high street have now begun.

The landmark metalwork has become tarnished and damaged in places after many years of service.

Mr Barton who undertook extensive research with Sefton Council and local Contractors alike, has now acquired the full level of funding required to restore all 110 of the listed ornamental lamp columns along Lord Street, which also includes the 16 columns outside of the Town Hall and the 4 large columns around the Monument at London Square for a greatly reduced £6,998.64. This figure being a vast improvement according the relevant Departments at the Local Authority as being “significantly lower than the original quote we received” of £13,700.00.

Through works to scrape away and sand down to the base metal, following protective application of red oxide primer and coastal resistant paint are now taking place which are schedule to continue for several weeks by approved Manchester based Contractors “Coating Services Ltd”.

Mr Barton – who is focussed on restoring Lord Street to its former glory – first raised this issue with the Council in 2014.

He said: “I’m delighted to report that work has now begun to repair the ornamental lamp posts this Summer 2018 – I have had this confirmed by both the Council and Contractors on site.

These are a signature feature which have long graced our popular high street since the first major industrial improvements were made

“Having long lobbied for this much needed task as part of my ongoing Community Conservation Campaign I am delighted, that whilst part of my final year as District Councillor, to have procured the funding necessary for this achievement which I am sure will be greatly appreciated and welcomed by fellow residents, businesses and prospective investors.

“I hope this will be a boost for the town centre and something locals and visitors to our seaside town can enjoy as we continue to restore Lord Street to its former splendour.

“I would like to thank all the exceptional people who have supported this long- standing crusade, especially the Council Officers for their help in getting the best price possible and their through research, in addition to all the many residents who have privately and publicly supported my efforts to have the district funding approved successfully.”