End of an era as Whitby whale bone arch removed ahead of bronze replacement

One of Whitby’s most recognisable landmarks has been removed this morning (Sep 1), leaving townsfolk and visitors with a very different view from the West Cliff.

The famous whale bone arch was installed in 2002 after being gifted by Whitby's twin town of Barrow in Alaska.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane (left), and coastal infrastructure engineer, John Woodhead, were on site for the removal.

placeholder image — North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane (left), and coastal infrastructure engineer, John Woodhead, were on site for the removal.

However, years of exposure to the weather on the coast has led to significant deterioration in the arch’s condition, meaning the bones now need to be replaced.

They were removed this morning at around 8.30am.

Removal of the whale jaw bones from Whitby West Cliff.

Ethical bronze replicas are set to replace them.

The new structure, which is set to be installed early next year, will replicate the appearance and scale of the existing arch while providing a durable, sustainable and long-term future for the landmark.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include harbours, said: “The removal of the arch is a landmark day in the town’s recent history, as visitors have flocked to see and photograph the bones for over two decades.

"Importantly, the bronze replicas provide an ethical alternative to the use of whale bones, allowing this iconic landmark and its connection to Whitby's maritime heritage to be preserved in a way that reflects modern conservation values.

Captain Cook look at the new, temporarym, bones-less view on Whitby's West Cliff.

“We look forward to seeing the new arch in situ.

"It will stand for decades to come, ensuring this iconic feature continues to inspire residents and visitors long into the future.”

Bronze was chosen as the material for the replacement due to its strength, longevity and ability to withstand the challenging conditions on the West Cliff.

Feedback from residents and visitors has shown a bronze replacement as the most fitting option.

Creating the new bronze arch, costing £70,000, is a complex process that will involve producing moulds from the existing bones and manufacturing a bespoke internal framework.

Whitby Town Mayor, Cllr Sandra Turner, added: "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.”