Pier upgrade to respect fishing heritage - plans

A project to transform Scarborough's West Pier would respect and celebrate the town's "rich fishing heritage", planners said.

Scarborough Town Board said the scheme would include the restoration of the harbour's existing heritage facilities and the replacement of buildings which were no longer fit for purpose.

Funding for the scheme comes from a £20.2m grant which was awarded to Scarborough as part of the government's Towns Fund, as well as from North Yorkshire Council's investment fund and regeneration budgets.

The council's strategic planning committee will consider the plans at a meeting on 30 January.

Permission is being sought for the regeneration project which would see new kiosks, improved offices, sheds and warehousing for the fishing sector as well as new parking facilities, public toilets and a space which could be used for outdoor events and cultural activities.

The chairman of the Scarborough Town Board, David Kerfoot, said: "Scarborough's West Pier is due to provide a major boost for both economic and environmental reasons.

"The proposed project is an opportunity to transform the harbour whilst respecting and celebrating Scarborough's rich fishing heritage."

He said many of the buildings on the West Pier were in desperate need of renovation and the scheme would improve facilities for the fishing industry, staff and visitors to the pier.

"It is also imperative that we continue to drive growth in the town, and the plans would make West Pier a must-visit destination for hospitality, leisure and events which we hope will encourage further investment to boost the local economy."

The regeneration scheme sits alongside the council's wider investment plans for Scarborough Harbour, which include work to the infrastructure and other facilities for harbour users.

The Towns Fund has already helped finance work to enhance the West Stand at the town's cricket club and new teaching facilities at the Construction Skills Village.

A public consultation was held in September and October 2023 with 91% of those who responded agreeing that intervention was required to safeguard the pier, while 71% were supportive of the proposals.

Following the consultation feedback, revisions were made to the plans including improving access for people with impairments or health conditions, such as changing some of the benches to have back supports, arm rests and grab handles.

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