Fresh proposals to transform Scarborough’s historic West Pier and ensure it remains a working harbour and a popular visitor destination have been drawn up.
We are progressing a multi-million-pound regeneration scheme to revitalise the pier, which is a historic asset in the town’s south bay.
After decades of exposure to harsh marine conditions, a number of the pier’s buildings are in a dilapidated state. Significant long-term investment is now required to protect its historic listed buildings, improve the pier’s structural condition and safety, and safeguard the area’s longstanding fishing industry.
The project includes restoring and repairing existing heritage facilities to bring them back into active use, preserving their character, alongside the creation of new, modern, flood-resilient buildings for commercial use and improved public facilities such as toilets and parking.
Plans also include new business opportunities to support the local economy, new kiosks, enhanced pedestrian routes and a new paved plaza which could accommodate outdoor events and cultural activities.
The latest plans have been shaped following input from harbour users and local stakeholders.
Members of the public are now invited to share their views on the revised proposals, which will help refine the scheme ahead of a planning application. The consultation is now live and will run until Monday, 13 July.
Executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include economic development and regeneration, said: “This project provides a valuable opportunity to transform the harbour and safeguard it for future generations.
“Many of the facilities on the West Pier are in urgent need of investment. Our aim is to revitalise the pier so it can continue to support local businesses, while also becoming a more attractive and sustainable destination that can drive growth in the town.
“While some buildings that are no longer fit-for-purpose will need to be demolished to make way for new development, others will be carefully repaired to ensure Scarborough’s maritime heritage is preserved and celebrated.
“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to shaping these proposals so far and would encourage people to review the plans and share their views.”
A public consultation held in September and October 2023 found that 91 per cent of respondents agreed that intervention was needed to safeguard the pier.
Planning and listed building consent applications for earlier redevelopment proposals were submitted in February 2024, attracting significant interest and a wide range of representations from members of the public and local stakeholders.
Feedback from that process has been carefully considered while developing the revised proposals.
This includes retaining a clearly defined working harbour area, with improved fishery facilities including new bait sheds and welfare facilities.
Proposals to include a restaurant in Building 1 have also been withdrawn, while a flexible industrial space will be protected to accommodate provision for a future boat lift and pier expansion.
The regeneration scheme forms part of the council’s wider investment plans for Scarborough Harbour, including improvements to infrastructure and facilities for harbour users.
Funding is proposed to come from a portion of the £20.2 million grant awarded to Scarborough as part of the Government’s Local Regeneration Fund, formerly known as the Towns Fund, alongside investment from our own capital budgets.
The Local Regeneration Fund has already supported several local projects, including enhancements to the West Stand at Scarborough Cricket Club, new teaching facilities at the Construction Skills Village, and the year-round Scarborough Fair programme of arts, heritage and sporting events.
View the new proposals and share your views as part of the consultation.