Brighton’s Black Rock seafront remains in darkness as a long-running dispute between local authorities and a utility provider continues to stall the activation of more than 100 safety lights.
The 800-metre boardwalk, which opened in April 2022, was designed as a flagship improvement for the area between Duke’s Mound and Black Rock. However, despite the installation of low-level lighting intended to support community safety and evening commuters, the units have never been switched on.
With the clocks due to go back on 25 October 2026, the ongoing failure has drawn criticism from local politicians as the period of evening darkness for walkers and cyclists is set to increase.
The Brighton and Hove Liberal Democrats have called for the activation of over 100 low-level lights along the boardwalk. While the boardwalk has been accessible for over two years, records indicate that the lighting infrastructure has remained inactive for more than four years since its initial installation phases began.
Brighton and Hove City Council and UK Power Networks (UKPN) remain at an impasse over why the connection has not been completed.
Councillor Jacob Allen stated that the council is currently unable to switch on the lights due to what he described as inaction from UK Power Networks. Conversely, UK Power Networks has claimed it has been waiting for the “go-ahead” from the council to commence the necessary work.
The situation has recently escalated to senior leadership. Brighton and Hove City Council Leader Bella Sankey has written directly to senior management at UK Power Networks to address the delay.
The Black Rock Rejuvenation Scheme was intended to be an environmentally significant project. The 800m boardwalk was constructed using recycled plastic equivalent to approximately 7.3 million bottles. The low-level lighting was a core component of the project, intended to make the path a viable route for residents and visitors after sunset.
As it stands, the path remains unlit, leaving the multi-million-bottle structure in the dark for another winter season unless the current deadlock between the council and the utility provider is broken.