THE commissioning of work to restore the structure of Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare is set to be discussed at a meeting next week by North Somerset Council, who could become sole employers for the contract to restore the pier structure.

As outlined in a report published on Monday, November 4 on the council’s website, councillors will discuss proposed changes to a collaboration agreement that exists between the council and the RNLI.

These changes would see the council becoming sole employers for the contract to restore the pier structure.

The discussion follows last week’s announcement of the council’s successful bid for an additional £10m in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to support this phase of the project.

The Grade II* Listed pier structure consists of 15 sets of cast iron trestles, topped with a wooden deck with bench seating and lighting.

A planning application and associated Listed Building Consent application was submitted to North Somerset Council’s planning department by the RNLI in September.

This sets out the extent of the work required which includes:

• Making good the pier trestles

• Replacing the pier lattice and associated structural beams

• Installing new pier bracing, a new pier deck, new bench seating and handrails, lighting to the pier bridge structure

• Provision of service ducts essential for utilities on the island.

This very specialist work requires prospective contractors to have extensive experience and expertise of both working in a marine environment and of heritage structures.

Members will also discuss recommendations for a commissioning plan for the work to minimise any delay and risk to the project.

If members vote in favour, a further report will be brought back to council at a future date so that councillors could consider the appointment of contractors, and the associated risk and liabilities of any decision, before a contractor is appointed.

None of North Somerset Council’s own capital funds have been used or committed to the Birnbeck Pier restoration capital project.

It is wholly funded by grants obtained by the council. Funding has so far been secured from:

• The National Lottery Heritage Fund

• RNLI

• UK government (former Levelling Up Fund)

• National Heritage Memorial Fund - emergency funding from the UK government Cultural Assets Fund (CAF)

• Historic England.

Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's executive member responsible for placemaking, said: “In the light of recent conversations with the RNLI, we’re seeking agreement for North Somerset Council to progress the procurement of contractors for the necessary work to restore the pier structure.

“Progressing the procurement at this stage does not commit us to entering the final contract for construction, which would be subject to a further council decision.

“However, it allows officers to continue to a stage where there is a much fuller and robust understanding of detailed construction requirements, costs and risks, prior to a final, informed decision being made.

“I’m pleased to see this work being delivered at pace and alongside physical emergency and safety work taking place both on the island and landside.

“The programme will see massive investment in our town, which has only been possible thanks to the valued support from external funders.

“I would also like to thank the local people who continue to support and contribute to these projects, including the Birnbeck Regeneration Trust and Friends of the Old Pier Society.”

The full Council meeting will be held in the Town Hall, Weston-super-Mare, at 6pm on Tuesday, November 12. It will also be broadcast online.

To find out more about the Birnbeck Pier project, visit the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/birnbeckpierproject.