Multimillion-pound pier plans set to be lodged

Plans are set to be submitted for the proposed multimillion-pound transformation of Scarborough’s historic West Pier.The £11m scheme aims to bring benefits for the seaside town’s fishing industry, businesses, residents and visitors.A planning application is set to be lodged outlining how the proposed regeneration scheme is centred on supporting and celebrating the town’s fishing and lobster industry as well as replacing the current facilities and buildings, which are no longer fit-for-purpose, with new premises.Prior to the submission of plans, a consultation has been launched with local stakeholders to ensure that all views are heard.Work will include the construction of new facilities and improved welfare for the local fishing fleet.Plans also include a seafood restaurant to increase opportunities to highlight locally caught produce, and a new public space, which could be used for outdoor events and cultural activities. New kiosks, parking and vehicle and pedestrian management, better offices, sheds and warehousing for the fishing sector and new public toilets would also be provided.The West Pier proposals are supported by the £20.2m Towns Fund backing awarded to Scarborough in 2021, £5m of which will contribute to creating new facilities on the pier for harbour users with improvements for existing pier tenants and businesses as well as restoration work of some of the buildings with historical interest.Cllr Derek Bastiman, executive member for open to business at North Yorkshire Council, said: “The West Pier project is one of the key cornerstones of the regeneration of Scarborough.”It will respect Scarborough’s heritage as a working harbour while also breathing new life into that area of the seafront for the benefit of the fishing industry.”We want to ensure that as many voices as possible are heard and that is why we have launched this consultation and I encourage everyone to take part.”