Abandoned English pier closed for 32 years to reopen next YEAR after £44million upgrade
THE historic Birnbeck Pier is currently undergoing an enormous renovation and will open next year for the first time since the 90s.
First look images have been revealed to show what it could look like when visitors can finally step foot onto the structure again.
Birnbeck Pier connects the mainland to a rocky island in Weston-super-Mare, but has been closed to the public since 1994.
The pier is being restored at a cost of £44million and it has been well-received by locals and visitors who are calling it “excellent news”.
In recently revealed images, it shows that along with work on the pier structure, surrounding buildings will be restored too like the Pier Master’s Cottage.
This will become a visitor centre and shop which will also be connected to a new modern cafe building and terrace, which will offer impressive views to the pier.
Nearby, the Pier View building which has previously been a café, tea room, dress shop, and even military offices during World War Two, will also be restored.
As for what it will become, that’s yet to be decided, but one option being explored is an ice cream parlour.
The Toll House that’s known locally as the ‘shell shop’, will be restored and has potential to reopen as a concession stand.
As for the island, this will also eventually reopen to the public, but it may not be finished in time for when the pier reopens.
When it is complete, visitors will be able to see the restored clock tower and pavilion.
Also on the island will be the refurbished 1888 Boathouse, which will become a cafe on the top floor and an events space below.
Boats will even be able to dock thanks to the restored North Jetty on the island.
The island used to be very popular thanks to its theme park which had small rides including a miniature railway and water chute.
Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, told the BBC last month that work on restoring the pier is already a quarter of the way through.
He added: “When people will be able to walk on the pier for the first time, I think it will be a magical moment for the many people like me who were born in Weston and have lived here all their lives.
He continued: “People who have seen this crumbling jewel will be delighted to see it restored.
“The North Jetty will enable us to bring in passenger and other ferry services to Weston.”