THE completion date of a project to restore two 19th century lighthouses has been pushed back due to adverse weather conditions and supply chain issues with some materials.

Earlier this year Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners secured funding to renovate the harbour’s two lighthouses, on its north and west piers.

It was originally hoped that the work would be completed by the end of November.

However, this has been pushed back to the end of January.

Gavin Henry, director at CRS Facility Management, said: “Work is progressing to plan, although there have been a few delays that are out of our control, mainly due the heavy rain and the challenge of sourcing some materials in the current climate.

"At present we would hope to have all the work finished by January.

"Despite the delays we are very happy with the progress made so far and it is exciting to see things gradually taking shape at both lighthouses."

Lead contractor, CRS Facility Management began work on the project in August.

Work is well ahead on the West Pier Lighthouse, which has been completely repainted.

Metalwork on the structure has also been repaired by Shepley Engineers and is being repainted. Supply issues mean the team are awaiting the arrival of copper sheeting to be placed on its roof and work still needs to be done to replace the windows.

Project Manager Trevor Prowse, who has been donating his time to oversee the renovation, said: "There have been unavoidable delays getting hold of some materials - for example, copper sheeting for the roof on the West Pier.

"However, the team have been working into the night on the North Pier Lighthouse to try and make up for some of the lost time.

"The most important thing, of course, is to make sure the job is completed to the highest standard and that both lighthouses are something the town can be proud of."

Work has been underway on the North Pier Lighthouse to blast away dirt and paint from the exterior so it can be repainted and the roof has also recently been replaced.

The project is being funded by £144,000, mostly from Sellafield Ltd’s SiX (social impact, multiplied) programme, with additional funding provided by a variety of in-kind donations from Cumbrian people and businesses.