By 1844 there had been a substantial increase in shipping traffic and in response the light-tower was lifted some seventeen feet and candle -power was replaced by gas light. Amidst much public outcry the previous "red-light" was replaced by white light, creating confusion to sea craft set against the backdrop of white lights on the Foreshore and surrounding areas. Such furore was only quelled when Trinity House recognised and approved the controversial decision of the local Harbour Authority.

Facilities were improved further in 1847 with the provision of a portable lamp for use in emergency such as gas failure.

In 1850 an additional story was erected to the main building.

There is then little note to report with regard to the lighthouse until the First World War save that at some time prior to that electricity had replaced gas as the source of power, although again there appears no precise record of when exactly this took place.