Lamps in a north-east conservation zone are set to be replaced – because the sea has damaged them irretrievably.
The lamp posts in Fraserburgh’s Broadsea area can be folded down to make it easier for workers to replace bulbs when needed, but still retain the traditional styling of old gas fixtures.
However, many of them have stopped working because the sea air has seriously rusted their mechanisms.
The issue has been raised by Fraserburgh councillor, Ian Tait, who said locals had begun raising concerns about the faulty lights.
A representative from Aberdeenshire Council subsequently visited the town and confirmed almost half of the posts are not working.
Plans are now in place to have them replaced in the summer with LED alternatives.
A spokesman for Aberdeenshire Council said: “Some of the lighting along the Fraserburgh coastal path has suffered the effects of salt spray, leading to the internal mechanisms of some folding columns seizing beyond repair.
“Inspections have been carried out and the damaged units are to be replaced with a different model of lighting column and LED lanterns which should offer a longer life with a reduced need for maintenance.
“This work is due to take place in the summer, when weather conditions should be more favourable.”
It is not the first time Broadsea’s coastal proximity has affected residents. Last year, a section of the coastal path collapsed into the sea during storms which meant walkers had to find an alternate route to the nearby Museum of Scottish Lighthouses and Fraserburgh Heritage Centre.
The route affected is used by walkers to take in the sights across the coastline and leads directly to the attractions.
Alternative routes take pedestrians through industrial sites.
Rock armouring was added along the damaged pathway in 2009, but stops just short of where the slip happened.