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Two coastal towns vie to become the new home of Germany’s iconic Red Sand lighthouse

A race against time to save a crumbling North Sea beacon. Will Fedderwardersiel or Wilhelmshaven win the honor—and the challenge—of preserving this maritime legend?

In this image we can see there is a poster with ships, boats, houses, shed, poles, flag and water.
In this image we can see there is a poster with ships, boats, houses, shed, poles, flag and water.

"Roter Sand": Only two locations remain in the running - Two coastal towns vie to become the new home of Germany’s iconic Red Sand lighthouse

The search for a new home for the historic 'Red Sand' lighthouse has narrowed down to two locations. Bremerhaven and Hooksiel have been ruled out, leaving Fedderwardersiel and Wilhelmshaven in the running. The final decision will be made by a joint committee of federal and state heritage officials.

The process to relocate the decommissioned lighthouse began after a 2019 expert assessment revealed its dilapidated state and risk of structural instability. It was deemed unsafe to leave it in the North Sea.

Several sites were initially considered, but permits could not be granted for Bremerhaven and Hooksiel. The risk of confusion with active navigational aids in these areas was a major concern. An expert committee has since recommended dismantling the lighthouse and reassembling it on land.

With Bremerhaven and Hooksiel out of the picture, the focus is now on Fedderwardersiel and Wilhelmshaven. The final location will be decided by the joint committee in the coming weeks, marking a significant step in preserving this historic maritime landmark.

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