Weston Pier contractors appointed

Weston-super-Mare owners Kerry and Michelle Michael have appointed the main contractors to rebuild the pavilion.

John Sisk & Son will now start work as soon as possible to restore the historic tourist attraction that was burnt down in a devastating fire on July 28 last year.

Sisk is a national building contractor with projects throughout the UK and a regional base in Avonmouth.

Paul Wilson, the managing director of Sisk, said: "It is clear how devastating the fire has been, not just for the pier but for the people of Weston who must have thought this was the end for their biggest tourist attraction.

"Sisk will restore the excitement and grandeur of the historic pier, but with 21st century facilities for its visitors.

"We will use our building expertise on what is a major engineering challenge to rebuild the Grand Pier for the important tourist trade in summer 2010."

If work runs on schedule, the owners plan to reopen the pier in June 2010.

Mr Michael said: "Almost one year on from the fire we're pleased to have appointed a contractor to rebuild the pavilion.

"Although the deadlines we have set are very tight I'm hopeful we can get the work complete on time ready for people to enjoy the new Pier and all its attractions next summer. The Pier is a unique structure and building anything a quarter of a mile out to sea is a challenge for any contractor so we've had to be meticulous in our selection.

"I'm now looking forward to working with the Sisk team and making sure we deliver the world's greatest pier on time and on budget.

"The aim is to be open at the end of June, but if we have good weather this winter there is a chance we could complete earlier. Conversely, severe weather could still delay the project.

"The design team have worked diligently and tirelessly to get us to this point so quickly, they have met the very stringent timescales we have set all the way through the project and I am delighted now to have reached the most exciting part when the building begins to take shape.

"I would like to thank everyone on the team for all their efforts to date and I look forward to continuing our work with them to restore this magnificent structure which I hope will be the catalyst for the regeneration of the whole town."

New attractions on the pier will include a 90-metre high panoramic tower where up to 40 people at a time can enjoy a ride and spectacular view of the town; a new Fun House; go-karts; a surf board ride; psychedelic experience; mirror maze; robocoaster and laser room. Firm favourites, such as dodgems, ghost train and arcade games will be back along with improvements, such as an Edwardian tea room.

In the UK, Sisk has revenues of over £200 million and a staff of 400.