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On Tuesday 16 September our councillors will face a defining moment over the future of Weston’s iconic Grade II* listed landmark.
Once a proud gateway to the island and a jewel of Britain’s seaside heritage, the restoration project now faces a £5.5m gap.
The crisis follows a shock decision in June, when RNLI headquarters withdrew from the project, reversing its earlier pledge of £5.5m. Despite urgent efforts to secure alternative backers, the funding gap remains unfilled.
Our report which will be discussed by our full council, explores every option including a reduced scheme, covering the gap with local funds, or fresh external investment. Two new bids are still in play – but unless a breakthrough arrives in days, the project to restore the pier structure will effectively end.
The pier’s restoration is more than heritage – it’s a chance to unlock:
- New jobs and skills
- Stronger cultural and economic life in Weston
- Pride in a nationally significant landmark.
Work will continue on the landside phase including the restoration of historic buildings, the installation of vital infrastructure and the replacement of broken railings. These steps will safeguard parts of the site and keep the dream of full restoration alive.
Since the RNLI’s withdrawal, we have pressed ahead with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the National Heritage Memorial Fund, Historic England and The Birnbeck Regeneration Trust, as well as backing from local MP, Dan Aldridge.
Independent business case studies, along with national heritage organisations, back the project’s transformative potential.
More details are available on our website.