RNLI Lizard - Polpeor Cove (Closed)
This is the third and final RNLI Lifeboat Station to be constructed in Polpeor Cove at the Lizard. Construction work was completed in 1914
The large concrete building had an integrated slipway which meant the lifeboat was able to launch directly into the sea.
However, this could prove hazardous in rough conditions because of the number of rocks in the cove. The exposed position of the station also meant it required a great deal of expense to maintain its general upkeep.
Recovering the lifeboat after a service was also problematical. Due to the location the boat could not be hauled stern first back up the slipway.
The recovery system used was to haul it back into the boat house, stern first, across timber baulks on the adjoining concrete slipway using a winch located in a separate building. It was pulled up the slipway and on to a turntable by which it could be rotated and moved back into the house.
The result of these difficulties meant the RNLI was forced to spend money repairing the station and the lifeboats from time to time.
By 1958, with the need to employ larger and faster lifeboats due to the growth in maritime commerce, the RNLI decided to close Polpeor Cove because of its operating limitations.
The RNLI eventually chose Kilcobben Cove as it new location for The Lizard Lifeboat station because it was sufficiently protected to allow safe launches in all conditions. Polpeor Cove closed in 1961.
The old Polpeor lifeboat station is now used as a base for small local fishing vessels.
Read MoreThe large concrete building had an integrated slipway which meant the lifeboat was able to launch directly into the sea.
However, this could prove hazardous in rough conditions because of the number of rocks in the cove. The exposed position of the station also meant it required a great deal of expense to maintain its general upkeep.
Recovering the lifeboat after a service was also problematical. Due to the location the boat could not be hauled stern first back up the slipway.
The recovery system used was to haul it back into the boat house, stern first, across timber baulks on the adjoining concrete slipway using a winch located in a separate building. It was pulled up the slipway and on to a turntable by which it could be rotated and moved back into the house.
The result of these difficulties meant the RNLI was forced to spend money repairing the station and the lifeboats from time to time.
By 1958, with the need to employ larger and faster lifeboats due to the growth in maritime commerce, the RNLI decided to close Polpeor Cove because of its operating limitations.
The RNLI eventually chose Kilcobben Cove as it new location for The Lizard Lifeboat station because it was sufficiently protected to allow safe launches in all conditions. Polpeor Cove closed in 1961.
The old Polpeor lifeboat station is now used as a base for small local fishing vessels.
