Weston’s neglected pier could finally be ‘restored to its former glory’.

Weston Mercury: The derelict main building at Birnbeck Island. Picture: Henry WoodsfordThe derelict main building at Birnbeck Island. Picture: Henry Woodsford (Image: Archant)

North Somerset Council has served a repairs notice to the private owner of Birnbeck Pier, CNM Estates.

The authority, working with Historic England, has 'exhausted all other options' to encourage the owner to improve the condition of the pier.

The council will now issue the repairs notice today (Tuesday) to advise the proprietor repair work must take place.

Weston Mercury: Wahid Samady and Michael Ross of CNM Estates. Picture: David KennefordWahid Samady and Michael Ross of CNM Estates. Picture: David Kenneford (Image: Archant)

Cllr Don Davies, leader of the council, said: "We know residents are keen to see Birnbeck Pier restored, as the landmark is a key feature of Weston's seafront.

"Over the past five months, external structural engineers have undertaken a detailed survey to establish the work needed to bring the pier back to the condition it was when it was listed in 1983.

"We thank Historic England for its unwavering support and I hope this is the first step towards Birnbeck being restored to its former glory."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tnkXkmcWe0

VIDEO: Rare footage of decaying Birnbeck Island.

The grade-II listed pier has been closed since 1994.

It is noted as being in 'very bad condition' by Historic England and is in 'immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric'.

A repairs notice is a swift and effective tool for alerting a proprietor of their statutory duties to repair and maintain the property they own.

CNM Estates has a minimum of two months to respond to the notice.

Should that period expire without a response, the council will then agree a future course of action with relevant parties.

For more, pick up a copy of Thursday's Mercury.