Continuation of works in Weston-super-Mare

The seaside town of Weston-super-Mare is preparing for a major renovation, but part of the planned works has been suspended.

Among the total funding of £20 million, the restoration of the historic Birnbeck pier is included, but its future is currently under threat.

Alamy
Alamy

BBC reported that the main sponsor of the pier restoration project, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), has withdrawn from the agreement.

According to the initial plans, RNLI was supposed to create a new base on the pier and was committed to raising £5 million to cover costs, as stated by the council.

However, in June RNLI decided to withdraw its participation due to doubts about the feasibility of the project.

The council leaders received recommendations to close the restoration project by September 16, 2025.

Birnbeck pier has been closed to the public since 1994 and is the only one in the UK connecting the mainland to the island.

However, another pier — Grand Pier — is open for visits in this seaside town.

Grand Pier officially opened on June 11, 1904, and received an extension the following year.

Entry to the pier costs £2, and local residents can visit it for free all year round.

It features numerous attractions such as the House of Horrors, Freefall, and Go-karts.

Additionally, various events are regularly organized, such as Sunset Sessions, Moonlit Beach Walks, Halloween Family Party, and fireworks.

Alamy

Alamy

Other renovation plans

The renovation process in Weston-super-Mare also includes the reopening of the Old Town Quarries.

This site has been closed since 2023, but work is currently underway to transform it into an event space.

According to information on GOV.UK, updates to the Grove Park, which dates back to the 19th century, are planned.

The park already has gardens, woodland walks, rockeries, ponds, and a playground.

Plans for the park include redesigning the main entrance with new benches and constructing new toilets.

The Tropicana space will be transformed into a venue for 8,000 people, with improved food and drink facilities.

The marine lake, located between the two piers, is also set for renovation, with work scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

With the renovation of Weston-super-Mare, the face of this resort town will change significantly. The planned works will not only restore architectural landmarks but also update the infrastructure for visitors, which could increase tourist traffic and enhance the quality of life for local residents. However, RNLI’s withdrawal from the project poses additional challenges for the implementation of plans.