Flags now proudly fly over Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare, marking an important milestone in the ongoing restoration project. Two flags have been raised on a new 5.5-metre flagpole installed atop the pier’s historic toll house, a Grade II listed building undergoing significant refurbishment as part of North Somerset Council’s major initiative to reopen the pier.
The flags display the maritime signal letters Bravo and Papa, representing the initials “B” and “P” for Birnbeck Pier. Mark Canniford, the council cabinet member overseeing the project, highlighted the importance of the flags: “The flags and flagpole on the southern toll house were an important feature of the original design, so their return marks another step forward in restoring the historic character of Birnbeck Pier.”
“Seeing the flags flying at the entrance to the pier is a proud moment for everyone involved in the project and a visible reminder of the progress being made. Birnbeck Pier means so much to local people, and we’re committed to bringing this iconic landmark back into sustainable use for future generations.”
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Progress on the restoration remains on track and within budget, with the pier expected to reopen next summer. Since March, contractors Mackley have been working from a distinctive jack-up barge platform to remove the original bridge to Birnbeck Island and install new sections. The first new bridge span was successfully lifted into place in June.
In July, councillors approved an additional £19 million in government funding for the project, which will likely finance the rebuilding of the pier’s North Jetty. This enhancement is anticipated to allow historic steamers, such as the Waverley, to call at the pier once again.
The government funding lifts the total secure funding for the restoration to just over £44 million. Birnbeck Pier, unique in Britain for connecting to an island, first opened in 1867. Designed by renowned pier engineer Eugenius Birch, it is considered one of his finest creations. For many years, the pier was regarded as one of the country’s most at-risk historic structures.
The restoration of the toll house has been supported by a £62,000 grant from the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund. Historic England’s Louise Brennan reflected on the significance of the milestone: “The return of the flags is a small but highly visible milestone in Birnbeck Pier’s remarkable restoration. Through the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, we’re helping to bring new life to this iconic landmark, preserving its historic character while supporting its future as a place for people to enjoy once again.”