Video: Michaels to start pier work within weeks

13 March 2009

Michelle Michael talks to the Mercury after getting planning permission for the new Grand Pier

WORK on Weston's new £34million Grand Pier could start by the end of the month.

With rebuilding plans given the green light last night (Thus), the first contractors are expected to be signed up today (Fri) and work will start within weeks.

Pier co-owner Kerry Michael said: "We have worked very closely with North Somerset planners and between us we have given due consideration to all aspects of the application and ironed out any potential problems."

A second contractor could be signed up within 10 weeks and the pier could be open for business by next summer.

The most expensive item on the landmark structure is likely to be an observation tower at the rear, which is coming in at a cost of around £2million.

The proposals for the new attraction include a bar around three times bigger than the previous one, a Victorian tea room and a central canopy that would run the whole length of the pier, with sides that could close in bad weather.

This week, Mr Michael described how much enthusiasm has been shown for a wedding venue which would be incorporated in the new-look pavilion, with dozens phoning him up hoping to be the first to tie the knot on the new attraction.

But the Weston businessman says he will not book any ceremonies for the new glazed area until he has confirmed a re-opening date for the pier.