THE PROJECT
The aim of the project was to create a high class visitor centre, which embraced its dramatic location, provided greater accessibility to the pier and would ensure it remained a prominent historic attraction. This was delivered through creating a unique two storey building, partly embedded within the stone bedrock of the shore line and partly emerging as a glass structure from the cliffs, along with a full restoration of the existing toll house. Facilities were upgraded to include on site education and meeting spaces which offer a novel view of the pier from an almost sea level porthole, as well as dining facilities which make the most of the spectacular visuals offered by both the pier and seascape. The new visitor’s centre was funded by a number of sources including the Coastal Community Fund, the Heritage Lottery Fund and a Community Share.
£1.8m
CONTRACT VALUE
50 WEEKS
CONTRACT DURATION
Customer
Clevedon Pier &
Heritage Trust Ltd
Architect
O'Leary Goss
Quantity Surveyor
Trevor Humphrey
Associates
Form of Contract
Competitive single
stage
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
Ensuring continued use of the pier: An initial challenge was raised concerning how to maintain access to the pier whilst at the same time cutting off its single point of access. Working with a specialist scaffold company we designed and installed a bespoke access walkway atop the beach in order to bridge the gap between the cliff tops and the pier.
Unique environment: Working in an exposed shoreline position brings with it a number of its own specific challenges, including the potential of tidal storms. Engaging with the customer, we called upon their vast experience of the site and in collaboration devised a working system to ensure that the works could be delivered safely.
Neighbour relationships: Sited in what is a busy tourist spot, relationships with local businesses and residents was paramount to the customer and ourselves. We worked closely with the local community to coordinate works and ensure that disruptions and noise were kept to a minimum and were undertaken at times convenient to all. We also liaised closely with English Heritage to reassure them about our continued protection of the grade 1 listed pier.
