Weston Grand Pier - History
AS ONE of North Somerset's most significant attractions the Grand Pier has evolved over the years into the centre-piece of Weston.
The landmark, which has attracted thousands of fun-seekers every year, has a rich history behind it.
Although only built in 1903, the pier holds treasured memories for many residents and visitors alike.
The main aim of the original board of directors, which included representatives from the Cardiff Docks and Railway Company, was to create a promenade, pavilion and a landing stage for boats.
However, since those early days the attraction has grown further to become the illuminated spectacle, which has become so renowned across the world.
This year marks the 75th anniversary since the attraction opened after the first devastating blaze in 1930.
- November 7, 1903 - Work started on creating the Grand Pier. The majority of the money came from Cardiff, courtesy of the Cardiff Docks and Railway Company.
- June 11, 1904 - First part of the Grand Pier opens. The pavilion housed a fine Edwardian theatre for 2,000 people, with an orchestra pit and dressing rooms. Entertainment included opera, musical comedy, Shakespeare, ballet and boxing. Mogg's Band was regular entertainment in the bandstand every Saturday morning.
- May 16, 1907 - Another 500yds of pier was opened. It was intended to run a regular passenger service to Cardiff but the tide and strong currents made the mooring of ships too dangerous.
- 1926 - Light amusements were added to the Pier but the pavilion shows still proved to be the main source of income.
- 1927 - Glass screen were put in down the centre of the pier.
- 1930 - The pavilion was destroyed by a fire and £36,000 had to be found to pay for the rebuild because it was underinsured.
Leonard Guy, who had previously held the sideshow concessions on the pier, bought the remains and rebuilt the deck.
- 1931 - The pavilion deck was opened with some small rides, dodgems and other attractions.
- 1933 - Just over three years after the fire, the pavilion was completely reopened. Instead of a theatre, it now housed a funfair and was deemed the largest on any pier. Its total cost was £60,000.
- 1946 - The Grand Pier was sold to the Brenner family, which carried out some alterations and in later years replaced the entrance area to provide shops and food outlets.
- 1974 - The pier was listed as Grade II* because it was considered to be a monument of historic importance.
- 2004 - The Grand Pier celebrated its 100th birthday. Festivities included free rides, free entertainment and a firework show.
- February 6, 2008 - The Grand Pier was sold by the Brenner family to the Michael family - brother and sister business team, Kerry and Michelle.
- July 28, 2008 – Crowds look on in shock as fire destroys Weston’s Grand Pier.
To view all the historical pictures of the pier click here