Isle of Wight's Stunning Vintage Electricity Box Gets a Makeover
An eye-catching Grade II listed electrical junction box at the top of Oakhill Road has been given a fresh lease of life. Island Roads teamed up with the Isle of Wight Council’s conservation department to carefully restore this historic relic as part of the Highways PFI contract.
Over a Century Old and Still Shining
Believed to have been installed around 1900, the ornate cast iron box was designed for the Isle of Wight Light and Power Company, likely by the Callender Iron Co. Its purpose? To boost the flagging electrical voltage at the end of a long supply line.
The kiosk stands just over two metres tall with each side measuring over a metre. Its door and sides are decorated with three elegant panels, each topped with an arched design, making it a true piece of industrial art.
A Rare Glimpse Into the Island’s Electrical Past
Historic England hails the kiosk as “a rare surviving reminder of the early years of the domestic electricity industry, both nationally and on the Isle of Wight.”
Cllr Reg Barry, representing Nettlestone and Seaview, applauded the restoration: “It’s crucial to preserve the Island’s history. I’m thrilled Island Roads have restored this iconic box. There used to be two kiosks in the ward, but the other at Apply Road and Puckpool Hill was demolished years ago. This is the last one left and it deserves care.”
Island Roads Delivers More Than Just Roadworks
John Barry, Island Roads’ district steward, explained the meticulous process: “We carefully prepared and repainted the kiosk in silver — a colour approved by the council’s conservation team.”
He added, “While our main job is improving roads and footways, we also have a duty to maintain the existing network. Restoring this unique piece of local history was a privilege.”
