Why does Whitby need to replace its Whale Bone Arch?

The Whale Bone Arch in Whitby is over 170 years old and is currently deteriorating, requiring replacement.

What are the main difficulties in replacing Whitby's Whale Bone Arch?

Challenges include sourcing real bones ethically from remote locations, complex transport, and obtaining import permissions for protected species.

Will Whitby use real or replica bones for the new Whale Arch?

Authorities are considering both real bones from Alaska and imitation bones due to ethical concerns and logistical complexities.

Home / Environment / Whitby's Iconic Whale Bone Arch Faces Replacement Dilemma

Whitby's Iconic Whale Bone Arch Faces Replacement Dilemma

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Replacing Whitby's 170-year-old whale bone arch faces ethical and logistical hurdles.
Sourcing new bones from Alaska involves remote Arctic locations and import permissions.
Ethical concerns over endangered species and social acceptance favor replica bones.

Whitby's Iconic Whale Bone Arch Faces Replacement Dilemma

Whitby's iconic Whale Bone Arch, a beloved landmark on West Cliff for more than 170 years, is confronting substantial obstacles regarding its replacement. The current structure, last renewed in 2002, is deteriorating, necessitating urgent action from local authorities. However, the path forward is complicated by a complex web of logistical and ethical considerations.

Procuring new bones, potentially from Whitby's twin town in Alaska, involves significant challenges. These include reaching bones in remote Arctic locations, obtaining necessary permissions for their recovery and transport, and navigating international regulations like CITES, which protects the species. The process of importing the bones to the UK also presents a major hurdle.