SULA Lightship - A New Chapter at Gloucester Docks

Every now and then a project comes along that feels special. For SOLV it was the chance to work on the LV14 SULA Lightship for our old clients Colin and Viv Brooks. Colin and Viv took the bold step to buy and live in the LV14 moored in the heart of Gloucester Docks. You can’t miss her: bright red and a floating landmark, full of character with a history that stretches back to her days guiding sailors at sea.

What is a lightship?

Lightships are vessels equipped with a bright light to warn ships of hazards like sand banks and submersed rock formations and to help ships navigate the waters - imagine a lighthouse mounted on a ship. Lightships around the UK were mostly found near sand-banks as no permanent structures could be built on the sand.

As lightships were “on station” most of the time and only came to port for maintenance every 3 years, most lightships didn’t have engines and were towed into position by tugs and anchored close to the hazard. Lightships were manned by 5-8 men who stayed on board for 2 weeks.

History

The first evidence of lightships can be found in documents mentioning “floating lights” at the entrance of the ancient Egyptian harbour of Alexandria during the time of Cleopatra. Later, the Romans had Galley ships with fire baskets on a mast and in the 15th Century the Dutch had lightships to guide fishing boats back to harbour at dusk.

The first lightship in the UK; the Nore - a converted trawler with 2 iron baskets burning wood, was positioned on the Thames estuary in 1731. By the beginning of the 20th Century there were 350 lightships worldwide.

Over time the wooden fire baskets were replaced with oil lamps and later multiple parabolic reflectors to focus the light into a beam and revolving mechanisms to produce flashes of light.

When trading on the west coast increased, cities like Bristol and Gloucester became significant ports and lightships were needed to help ships navigate the Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary.

Between 1980 and 1990 all lightships were converted to unmanned vessels, solar powered and remotely operated from shore. With the advent of sophisticated SatNav systems on commercial vessels most lightships have been replaced with buoys.

The LV14 SULA Lightship

The LV14 was commissioned by the Humber Conservancy Board, built by Cook, Welton and Gemmel and was launched and stationed near Spurn sandbank in the Humber Estuary in 1959.

The design of the vessel was unique in 2 ways; she was equipped with a Fresnel lens system for the main light and a 360-degree foghorn on top of the wheel house.

The ship was active until 1985, when she was sold to serve as the club house for the Beaucette Yacht Club in Guernsey. In 1988 she was sold to Conwy, North Wales as a tourist attraction by 1990 she moved to Milford Haven and used as a museum ship. In 1997 she was sold to Irish tourist investors and towed to Ireland where she was laid up for future plans. In 2007 the lightship underwent a 3-year restoration and has been moored in Gloucester Docks since 2010.

The lightship to retains almost all of its original features including the Fresnel Lens and the foghorn.

So, what did we do?

Colin and Viv bought LV14 as a retirement project, but they also needed to generate an income.

LV14 was being used as a complementary health centre with living accommodation, SOLV architects were brought on board to submit planning for change of use to living accommodation with bed and breakfast and a training/conference facility to educate visitors to the docks about the history of LV14 and lightships.

The challenges associated with a ship moored to a dock are a world away from a house or other standard building, who would have thought you’d need to carry out a flood risk assessment for a ship.

Planning permission was achieved and Colin and Viv have transformed the vessel into the UK’s only stay-aboard lightship with luxurious accommodation and an unforgettable experience for guests.

Work on LV14 never stops and the unique Fresnel lens was brought back to life in 2020 to illuminate the sky for the first time in 20 years, the restoration continues…

SULA has become a defining landmark in Gloucester Docks with many visitors each year and SOLV are privileged to have been part of the journey.

Sustainable Home Design in Winchester: How to build a Greener More Efficient Home

Sustainability is more than a trend - it’s a way to make your home healthier, more comfortable and cost effective. In Winchester, homeowners are increasingly looking for energy efficient extensions, refurbishments and new builds. At SOLV architects, we help you design your home so that it is environmentally responsible without compromising style.

Smart Orientation and Natural Light

Position rooms and windows to maximise daylight reducing the need for artificial lighting.

South face living spaces capture warmth in winter, lowering heating bills.

Rooflights and glazing can bring in natural light without increasing costs.

High-Performance Insulation and Materials

High performance insulation in walls, floors and roofs keeps heat in and energy bills down.

Sustainable materials like timber, reclaimed brick and low-carbon concrete reduce environmental impact.

Natural finishes and locally sourced materials are better for the environment.

Energy -Effiecient Systems

Solar panels, heat pumps and efficient heating/cooling systems cut energy use.

Smart thermostats and home automation allow precise energy management.

Rainwater harvesting and grey water recycling support sustainable living.

Open plan living spaces improve air circulation and reduce reliance on artificial heating.

Cross ventilation keeps rooms cool in summer without air conditioning.

Zoned heating ensure energy is used efficiently only where needed.

Future Proofing your Home

Designing for flexibility allows your home to adapt to future needs.

Electrical vehicle charging, solar ready roofs and low maintenance eco friendly landscaping plan for the future.

Planning a house extension: 5 key things to know

A house extension can completely transform your home - adding space, light and value, but without careful planning, it can become stressful and expensive. At SOLV we are experts in guiding homeowners through the process to create extensions that are practical, beautiful and future-proof. Here are five key things to know before starting your project.

1. Understand Planning Permission Requirements

Before you start designing, check if your extension needs planning permission. There are specific rules, especially for period properties or houses in conservation areas. A qualified architect can guide you, helping you avoid costly mistakes or delays.

2. Consider the flow and Function of Your Home

Think about how your extension will connect with your existing house:

• Will it improve daily living or just add more floor area?

• How will light, ventilation and circulation work?

• Is it future proof - accessible for an ageing or a growing family?

  SOLV architects can help you understand how your new space will feel.

3. Choose Materials Wisely

Houses come in a mix of traditional and modern styles. The materials used should respect and harmonise with the local character:

Flint and brick for a traditional look

Charred timber and glass for a contemporary twist

Sustainable materials

4. Plan Your Budget Early

Extensions can vary widely in cost depending on size, complexity and  materials. Early-stage budget planning helps avoid surprises.

Architects can provide realistic cost estimates and suggest design alternatives to keep your project on track.

SOLV architects produce a detailed working drawing package to help builders price accurately so there are less surprises along the way.

5. Work with the right Architect

The right architect turns your vision into a functional, beautiful and buildable design. We guide clients through every step: from initial sketches and planning applications to contractor selection and build. We have years of experience and are chartered with RIBA and ARB.

Planning an extension doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance and considered design, your new space can enhance your home for years to come.

Contact SOLV architects today to discuss your project.