Out of 242 cast iron lampposts across the city, nine in Cossington Road have been identified for replacement after failing structural safety checks.
The lampposts, known as Biggleston columns, have developed serious internal faults that cannot be seen from the outside, including deterioration below ground. Because of this, they now present a safety risk and must be replaced.
We are only replacing only those columns proven to be unsafe.
In recognition of the contribution the lampposts make to the character of the city, and the value they hold with residents, KCC has worked closely with heritage specialists to make sure replacements stay in keeping with the surrounding area.
The new columns will be made from steel for strength and durability and fitted with decorative features designed to reflect the heritage of lighting in Canterbury. Wherever possible, the original lanterns will be reused to help retain the familiar look of the streets.
Many of Canterbury’s cast iron lampposts are often thought to be Victorian, but a significant number were installed more recently in the 20th century. The wider network will remain in place, with replacements only carried out where safety issues arise.
“These structures have deteriorated internally in ways that can’t be seen from the outside. Where that creates a risk, we have to act so that we keep everybody safe.”
Peter Osborne, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “Only a small number of Canterbury’s lampposts are being replaced, and only where safety issues have been identified.
“These structures have deteriorated internally in ways that can’t be seen from the outside. Where that creates a risk, we have to act so that we keep everybody safe.
How the new heritage style lampposts will look
“We’ve worked closely with heritage specialists to make sure the replacements look right in their setting, while ensuring they are safe and built to last.”
Work is due to begin from Tuesday 17 November and last three days, with efforts made to minimise disruption. We won't need to close the road, but parking bay suspensions near the columns will be in place while the work is carried out.
If your vehicle is usually parked near the streetlights, you must park it somewhere else away from the site whilst these works are carried out, so the road is clear for us to work on.
The nine columns being removed will be inspected to see whether they can be safely restored. Where possible, they may be reused elsewhere in the city centre.
Frequently asked questions
Why are these lampposts being replaced?
A small number of lampposts (nine out of 242 across Canterbury) have failed structural safety checks. The damage affects the internal structure of the columns, including below ground, and cannot be seen from the outside. This means they now pose a potential safety risk and must be replaced.
Why can’t the existing lampposts simply be repaired or repainted?
The structural deterioration affects the inside of the columns and the sections below ground. This type of damage cannot be safely repaired in place or addressed through surface treatments such as painting, so these options would not remove the safety risk.
Will all of Canterbury’s cast iron lampposts be replaced?
No. We are only replacing those columns that have been proven to be unsafe or damaged.
Are these lampposts Victorian?
While often described as Victorian, many of Canterbury’s cast iron lampposts were actually installed more recently in the 20th century. The network is a mix of ages.
Why aren’t like-for-like cast iron replacements being installed?
The original manufacturer is no longer in operation and the moulds used to produce the columns no longer exist. Recreating them would cost tens of thousands of pounds, with each new column costing around £10,000, making this option poor value for public money.
What will the new lampposts look like?
The replacement columns are designed to reflect the heritage of lighting in Canterbury. Decorative features will help retain their heritage appearance, and wherever possible the original lanterns will be reused so they blend in with their surroundings.
Have heritage considerations been taken into account?
Yes. Whilst we are under no obligation to replace lights with a heritage style, KCC has worked closely with heritage specialists to agree an approach that maintains the character of the area while ensuring the infrastructure is safe and fit for the future.
What will happen to the lampposts that are removed?
Although the columns cannot safely remain in use in their current condition, they will be inspected once removed to see whether any elements can be restored or repurposed. Where appropriate, they may be reused in locations or ways that do not present a safety risk.
