Jonathan Dudd, landlord of the Captain’s Cabin in Weston-super-Mare, faces uncertainty as the closure of the nearby Birnbeck Road car park threatens his pub’s future. The Captain’s Cabin, a family-run establishment since the 1980s with stunning sea views, relies heavily on the car park for customer access. The long-anticipated reopening of the Victorian Birnbeck Pier, just minutes away, promises a significant boost to the business—if they can survive until then.
Since September, the car park has been almost entirely closed due to restoration work on the historic pier, causing a steep decline in foot traffic to the pub. “If this continues for two or three years as told, it’s doubtful the Captain’s Cabin will still be open,” Jonathan said. Sundays and weekends, especially, see heavy reliance on the nearby parking, not only for pub patrons but also dog walkers using the seafront.
Jonathan expressed frustration over what he perceives as poor communication with local authorities. “I was assured the contractor would coordinate with me to open the car park when not in use. That hasn’t happened, despite promises,” he added, urging for partial reopening as early as Christmas.
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The council, however, emphasizes public safety concerns, noting the need to close the car park due to construction vehicles and upcoming utility works. A North Somerset Council spokesperson explained, “The car park closure is temporary to allow restoration, expected to last until 2028. The site is restricted, and contractors require space to operate safely.” They also said a part of the car park remains open until absolutely necessary to close.
To ease the disruption, the council encourages patrons to use alternative transport options or park in the Madeira Road car park 5 minutes away. Jonathan has placed signs directing customers there but was told to remove signage on council property, with the council promising to improve official wayfinding instead.
The Birnbeck Pier restoration project is a flagship initiative, partly funded by the Levelling Up Fund, aiming to preserve this Grade II* listed pier—the only one in the UK connecting to an island. Closed since 1994 due to disrepair, the pier is set for extensive restoration to revive its historic charm and accessibility.
While the pier’s revival offers hope for future prosperity, businesses like the Captain’s Cabin face an uphill battle during the lengthy restoration period. Jonathan’s key question remains: “Can we hold on until the pier reopens?”