Watchet Lighthouse, a historic maritime beacon that has stood bright red for 160 years, is set to be repainted green to comply with international navigation safety standards.
The hexagonal, 22-foot cast iron lighthouse has guided ships into the Somerset town’s harbour and marina since 1862. Its distinctive light can be seen from up to nine miles at sea. However, harbourmaster Captain Jessica Tyson has revealed that the traditional crimson colour violates the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation guidelines.
“This lighthouse serves as an essential navigational aid, marking the entrance to the harbour,” Capt Tyson explained to the town’s harbour advisory committee. “According to regulations, the seaward side should be painted green and the landward side red to avoid confusion among mariners.”
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While the tower has traditionally been painted red to date, the inconsistency between the red tower and its green light has reportedly caused confusion for some incoming boats. Mariners have sometimes mistakenly navigated towards the harbour wall instead of the entrance.
“With increased traffic and the new marina, ensuring safe navigation is a priority,” Capt Tyson added. “Painting the seaward panels green will provide clearer guidance for vessels entering the harbour.”
The advisory committee has voted in favour of the repainting plan. Importantly, only the seaward-facing panels will be changed to green; the landward panels will retain their classic red.
Watchet Lighthouse, designed by James Abernethy and built by Hennet Spinks and Else of Bridgwater, was originally contracted for just £75. Notably, the famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel had also submitted a bid. The lighthouse was relocated after storm damage to the harbour walls in 1900 and repositioned on a new breakwater five years later. Throughout its history, the lighthouse has featured a green cupola roof and an ornate weather vane, which remain today.