‘Once in a generation’ plans will ‘transform’ Scarborough’s West Pier.
A planning application is set to be lodged for the £11 million project which is aimed at bringing benefits for the seaside town’s fishing industry, businesses, residents and visitors.
North Yorkshire Council says the plans will “support and celebrate” the town’s fishing and lobster industry.
Some dilapidated buildings will go, to be replaced by modern premises. Buildings with historical interest will be restored.
The council has launched a consultation on the pier plans. This will include face-to-face consultations and online surveys to allow as many people as possible to take part.
Scarborough is now the second biggest harbour in Europe when it comes to lobster catches.
The new vision for the West Pier includes a high-quality seafood restaurant, that will increase opportunities to highlight locally caught produce.
A new public space could be used for outdoor events and cultural activities. New kiosks, parking and vehicle and pedestrian management, better offices, sheds and warehousing for the fishing sector and new public toilets will also be provided.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, Cllr Derek Bastiman, said: “The West Pier project is one of the key cornerstones of the regeneration of Scarborough.
“It will respect Scarborough’s heritage as a working harbour while also breathing new life into that area of the seafront for the benefit of the fishing industry.”
A number of revisions have already been made to the plans in response to feedback from tenants and users.
These include an increase in the number of car parking spaces proposed from 60 to 80 and working with local people to champion the pier’s heritage, including a memorial feature to those who have lost their lives at sea.
To view the plans and to comment on them, see the webpage here.