A new £70,000 bronze replica will replace Whitby's iconic whale bone arch after the current structure suffered significant weather damage.
A £70,000 bronze replica will replace the famous whale bone arch in Whitby to safeguard one of the town's most recognisable landmarks.
The current bones will be carefully removed from the West Cliff in September to allow a complex manufacturing process to begin, with the new structure expected to be installed early next year.
Years of exposure to challenging coastal weather has caused significant deterioration to the existing arch, which was gifted to the town in 2002 by Whitby's twin town of Barrow in Alaska.
Bronze replicas were selected as the preferred solution following a detailed appraisal of various options and feedback from residents and visitors. Council officials confirmed the material was chosen for its strength, longevity, and ability to withstand the harsh seafront conditions.
The new structure will replicate the exact appearance and scale of the existing arch. Over time, the metal will develop a natural patina while retaining the distinctive form that has become synonymous with the maritime heritage of the town.
Producing the replacement arch involves creating moulds from the current bones and manufacturing a bespoke internal framework to provide a durable and sustainable long-term future for the monument.
The internationally recognised symbol attracts thousands of visitors every year, famously framing the views towards Whitby Abbey.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, Councillor Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include harbours, said:
"The whale bone arch is one of Whitby's most treasured landmarks and an important part of the town's heritage.
"After exploring all possible options and listening carefully to people's views, it became clear that a bronze arch offered the best way forward.
“It allows us to preserve the character and significance of this much-loved feature while providing a solution that will endure for many decades.”
Councillor Mark Crane added:
“This is a significant investment in one of Whitby's most recognisable landmarks. The new bronze arch will stand for generations, providing a lasting symbol of the town's unique maritime heritage and ensuring this iconic feature continues to inspire residents and visitors long into the future.”
Whitby Town Mayor, Councillor Sandra Turner, said:
"The whale bone arch means a great deal to residents and visitors alike.
“While it is sad to see the current bones reach the end of their life, the new bronze arch will ensure this landmark continues to celebrate Whitby's history and provide a focal point on West Cliff for future generations.”
The existing bones will be gifted to the University of York to support academic and educational research following their removal.
A section of the 2002 structure will also remain in the town, where it will be displayed at Whitby Museum alongside bones from an earlier arch that once stood on the West Cliff.
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22 Feb 2026 - The town council says 'ALL realistic avenues' for replacing Whitby's Whale Bone Arch with real whale bones have been exhausted.
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