Birnbeck Pier, the only pier in the UK connecting the mainland to an island, is undergoing a multi-million-pound restoration after being closed for 30 years. The Grade-II listed structure in Weston-super-Mare first opened in 1867 and operated for 127 years before shutting in 1994 due to safety concerns.
Unique History and Decline
The pier links to Birnbeck Island, a rugged outcrop that served as a base for the RNLI lifeboat launches until 2014, when the pier was deemed too hazardous. During World War 2, the island was requisitioned by the Admiralty for top-secret weapons testing. After reopening post-war, the pier never regained its former popularity and changed hands among private owners, leading to neglect and eventual closure.
Restoration Funding and Plans
Since 1998, the pier has been on the National Heritage at Risk Register. North Somerset Council acquired it and secured £5.5 million from the National Lottery for restoration. An additional £62,120 from the DCMS Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, administered by Historic England, will restore entrance gates and turnstiles, and add design features to the southern Toll House honoring original architect Eugenius Birch.
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's cabinet member for the project, said: "It's great that Historic England has been able to top up our initial grant application. This additional money has allowed us to instruct specialist contractors to restore the entrance gates and turnstiles and install important design features on the southern Toll House to honour Eugenius Birch's original design." He added: "I'm very much looking forward to seeing the flag flying at the entrance to the pier in celebration of work once it's complete next summer."
Timeline and Impact
Restoration plans date back to 2006 but were repeatedly shelved due to ownership changes. Work is now underway, with completion expected by summer 2027. The project aims to return the pier to public use, boosting local tourism and preserving a unique piece of British seaside heritage.
