Watchet's lighthouse has stood red at the harbour entrance since 1862, but it is now set to be painted green to meet maritime rules. We are asking Somerset Council to leave it as it is, and if the change goes ahead, to make sure it costs the people of Watchet nothing.
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To Somerset Council and the Watchet Harbour Advisory Committee,
Watchet's lighthouse was built in 1862 for seventy-five pounds. For more than 160 years it has stood red at the entrance to our harbour, and it means a great deal to the people who live here.
It is now to be repainted green. We understand Trinity House has raised a point about navigation, and no one in Watchet wants to make the sea less safe.
Residents should not have to bear the cost of a change they don't want. If the work is forced through regardless, we ask the council for one clear guarantee, that it costs the people of Watchet nothing. Not a penny of local council tax, and nothing taken from the harbour repairs and services this town actually needs.
Before any work begins, the council must publish the full cost in writing and to state plainly who is paying.
Kind regards
James Wright
