Longships Lighthouse Fog Alarm Continues to Sound Every 13 Seconds forcing locals to buy ear plugs if you wish to sleep in the Cornwall area. Holidaying tourists are advised … stay at home unless you’re staying up all night!
Longships Lighthouse Fog Alarm saga continues
Residents near Land’s End are grappling with the incessant beeping of Longships Lighthouse’s fog alarm, which has been sounding every 13 seconds for over a week. Cornish Local authorities have advised purchasing earplugs as the alarm disrupts both nighttime quiet and daytime peace.
The National Coastwatch Institution reported the issue to the Coastguard, which confirmed it is due to a malfunction in the fog sensing mechanism. Trinity House is aware of the problem and is awaiting parts for repairs, although the installation will depend on weather conditions.
Tourist Concerns Raised Over Lighthouse Alarm
Visitors to Land’s End are expressing frustration over the near-constant noise from Longships Lighthouse’s malfunctioning foghorn. While some tourists report the sound is bearable, others worry it may disturb their sleep. One adventurous visitor described it as “the noisiest sunset I’ve seen so far,” while another lamented the interruption to the peaceful Cornish experience.
Local businesses are also taking note, as the situation has become a topic of conversation among both residents and tourists, highlighting the disruption to what is typically a tranquil coastal environment.
Trinity House Responds to Fog Alarm Issues
Trinity House, responsible for the operation of Longships Lighthouse, communicated that the audible hazard warning signal is malfunctioning due to a fault with its visibility sensor. The alarm, which is intended to indicate foggy conditions, has been activating incorrectly during clear weather.
The organization is planning the necessary repairs but must coordinate with the weather and safety crews to access the lighthouse, which is 1.25 miles off the coast. The lighthouse has been automated since 1987 and is monitored from a centre in Harwich, Essex.
Community Solutions Proposed Amid Noise Concerns
Amid the persistent noise from Longships Lighthouse, community members are suggesting temporary solutions to cope with the situation. Some locals and visitors have begun sharing tips for blocking the sound, such as using earplugs or white noise machines.
The National Coastwatch Institution humorously recommended earplugs as a suitable investment for those affected. Community engagement has sparked discussions about increasing awareness of the lighthouse’s operational issues while residents patiently await the arrival and installation of necessary repairs.
Longships Lighthouse: A Historical Landmark in Distress
Built in 1875, Longships Lighthouse has served as a vital maritime beacon, standing 115ft tall off the north coast of Land’s End. Originally crewed by lighthouse keepers until automation in 1987, it now operates under the management of Trinity House.
The ongoing alarm disturbance illustrates the challenges faced by heritage sites in modern conditions, and raises questions about technical reliability in current lighthouse technology. As community pressure grows for a timely resolution, the lighthouse’s historical significance remains, underscoring the balance between tradition and modern inconvenience.
