Geoffrey George Weiner wrote in following our news story about the Brighton National Speed Trials to say: ‘I would like to congratulate you on publicising the forthcoming National Speed Trials in my home town of Brighton, of which I have been to many in my 40+ years as a resident here! I’m trying to make people aware of the fact that Madeira Drive itself is in need of cash for repairs as it is in a dire state at this time for lack of maintenance through the years. Your good Classics World users should take a look at the website appeal.’
GG is quite right, and a crowd funding campaign to kick-start the repair and regeneration of a section of Brighton’s Grade 2 listed Madeira Terraces was launched in July 2017. This was part of a four-point plan to save the terraces following news in March 2017 that a government grant to get the project underway had been refused, the hope being that once restored, the 1897 structure designed by Phillip Cawston Lockwood would become the catalyst for regeneration of the eastern side of Brighton’s world-famous seafront.
The target was to raise £400,000 towards total restoration costs that are estimated at £24m. By the end of November it had raised £466,114 from 2164 backers, smashing its target by a considerable margin and showing how much this iconic structure means to locals and visitors alike.
And the fundraising continues. Due to the number of people coming forward and asking to donate money after the crowdfunding deadline, a Madeira Terrace Restoration fund has been set up.
In February this year, local brewers Brighton Bier launched Madeira pale ale, with 25% of the profits going towards the fund. Other initiatives include a raffle organised by a team led by local resident Jax Atkins that raised an incredible £16,771, with a second raffle being held just last week.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can easily do so by online at Save Madeira Terrace www.visitbrighton.com/save-madeira-terrace, by debit or credit card over the telephone on 01273 292641, or by a good old fashioned cheque with Madeira Terrace Restoration fund written on the back and posted to Visit Brighton, Brighton Town Hall, Bartholomew Square, Brighton BN1 1JA.
