Whitby’s whale bone arch removed for bronze replica plan
Decision made to preserve historic landmark with new ethical alternative
Whitby's iconic whale bone arch, a well-known landmark, has been removed as part of a plan to replace it with a bronze replica.
Originally gifted by Whitby's Alaskan twin town Barrow in 2002, the arch has been a focal point for tourists capturing the seaside town’s beauty and its abbey.
However, after 24 years of battling the North Sea's harsh winds, the current arch has deteriorated and requires replacement.
Despite suggestions to source another whale jaw bone, North Yorkshire Council opted for a bronze alternative, following comprehensive evaluations of different options.
The process began on Monday with the removal facilitated by a crane.
The council explained that the new bronze structure, costing £70,000, aims to replicate the original arch in design.
Mark Crane, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, said:
“The whale bone arch is one of Whitby’s most treasured landmarks and an important part of the town’s maritime heritage."
The choice of a bronze replica provides an ethical approach, reflecting modern conservation values.
He added:
“We look forward to seeing the new arch in situ."
Whitby town mayor Sandra Turner expressed:
“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 original bones came from a bowhead whale, killed by indigenous people in 1996.
Previous considerations for seeking another genuine replacement involved ethical concerns about using real whale bones, given Whitby's historical engagements in the whaling industry.
Whitby’s fleet caught more than 2,500 whales during the 18th and 19th centuries.