SOUTH STACK VISITS SAVED
Volunteers negotiate lease to keep facility open
A POPULAR tourist attraction looks set to re-open to visitors this summer thanks to the efforts of local volunteers.
Earlier this year, Anglesey Council announced it was surrendering its lease on South Stack lighthouse on Holy Island, as part of a cost cutting exercise.
Although the lighthouse has continued operating as usual, there had been concerns the popular attraction would not open its doors for public tours.
But having struck a deal with the lighthouse owners, Trinity House, newly formed not-for-profit outfit, the Ynys Lawd Heritage Group, plan to once again re-open the facility.
Many of its members are already associated with Holyhead’s Maritime Museum, with hopes of tapping into their historical knowledge to improve the visitor experience.
Project manager, Sioned Edwards, said: “We were determined that this iconic lighthouse, which is a symbol of Anglesey really, should be open for visitors.
“We’re awaiting the final paperwork from Trinity House but the aim is to open up as soon as possible, we’d like to thank Stena for their support thus far
“We’re a not for profit group, so any income will be reinvested.
“The six part time staff who worked here, will also be retained.
“Importantly, we want to get as many local people in as we can, and not just cater to tourists from further afield.”
The South Stack lighthouse was built in 1809 at a cost of £12,000. The 91ft structure, fully automated in 1998, was designed by David Alexander with the light said to be visible as far as 28-miles out at sea.
With more than 400 stone steps leading down to the small island, its also known as a fantastic viewpoint for the cliff faces where thousands of seabirds nest during the summer.
In 1997, public tours re-started for the first time since the mid 80s after a new footbridge was installed at a cost of £200,000.