Plans to revamp Clacton Pier’s oldest building
will cost around £4 million, it has been revealed.
Architects appointed for the scheme have
completed the design with the necessary drawings and the project for the Jolly
Roger is expected to take about 18 months to carry out.
A special survey needed to be undertaken due
to the asbestos and lead paint involved in the 126-year-old structure, and solutions
have been found to the problems.
The next stage will be to look at how to come
up with the necessary funding to go forward with the programme of work.
Six months ago, the Pier received a £50,000
Government grant to proceed with a feasibility study for the scheme.
The funding from the Coastal Revival Fund was
ring-fenced for a survey of the structure, to develop a condition report,
provide concept drawings, structural designs and to calculate a budget for the
costs of the refurbishment.
Pier Director Billy Ball said that significant
progress has been made and virtually all the information needed is now on the
table.
“We are now at the point where things are
starting to come together nicely – we have a building design, programme of work
and a cost plan thanks to the £50,000 grant,” he said.
“The next important step will be to start
looking for the money to accomplish this ambitious project and that will
undoubtedly involve further bids for funding from various sources.
“The Jolly Roger was built in 1893 and the age
alone has presented us with a number of challenges, but we have come up with
ways of taking this scheme forward.
“The aim is to retain the main historical
features of this iconic building while creating a venue that could be home to
sporting and entertainment events, conferences, meetings, weddings and other
community activities.”
Minister
of State for Local Growth, the Rt Hon Jake Berry MP, said he is delighted
that Clacton Pier’s renovation is entering this exciting phase thanks to
£50,000 from the Coastal Revival Fund.
“Restoring
the pier’s oldest building will be a huge investment in the future of this
coastal town and an important way of attracting visitors while preserving this
iconic landmark for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations,” he added.
The Jolly Roger will be a two floor venue with
a ground floor and a first floor which can be retracted to make one larger space
if needed.
The Coastal Revival Fund is looking to support
the revival of heritage assets important to local communities, but which have
not reached their full economic potential – or are facing neglect.
It also builds on the Government’s intention
to deliver a landmark sector deal for the UK’s tourism industry, attracting
more visitors and help drive major growth.
“The Jolly Roger, as it currently stands, has
nowhere near maxed out its economic potential but these plans will help us to
do just that,” added Mr Ball. “We need to make every square inch of the Pier pay
for itself and serve the local community wherever possible 52 weeks a year.”
