Birnbeck Pier plan 'in jeopardy' as RNLI pulls out

Plans to restore a historic pier are "in jeopardy" after key partner the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) pulled out of the deal.

North Somerset Council confirmed it would have to delay the process of appointing contractors to renovate the pier.

Under current plans, the RNLI would have established a new base on the pier and was committed to raising £5m towards the cost, according to the council.

The RNLI said it wanted to update members before issuing a statement, but one is expected this afternoon.

Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: "This is a shocking decision that breaks faith with residents, volunteers and everyone who has worked so hard to secure a future for Birnbeck Pier."

"We feel very let down, as I'm sure many residents will too."

He added: "I want to reassure residents that the council, along with our funding partners, remain committed to saving Birnbeck Pier."

More than £20m has been secured for the project through grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK government, the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Historic England.

North Somerset Council had hoped to appoint contractors on Tuesday 8 July, with the work expected to begin later this year.

The appointment will now be delayed.

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