The start of renovations has been somewhat un-nerving, seeing the pier being dismantled in order to re-construct it, plus the incident on Thursday 16 July when some equipment got stuck in the mud. The tide then proceeded to advance, so that retrieval had to wait until low tide in the early hours of Friday 17 July. RB Commercial of Ipswich took on the rescue which went through the night.
Dave Gibson, CEO of Amicus Civil Engineering, told us: “The excavator went to the shore edge to wash the tracks clean, part of our daily routine to avoid spreading mud and dirt over the road and compound. Unfortunately, today the driver hit a really soft spot and became stuck.”
Supporters and visitors have enjoyed the benefits of Pierside Snacks being back at Shotley Pier, and our catering team, Amy and Sarah, have enjoyed meeting customers and the local community coming to try the butties and burgers and to see the immense changes to the seascape. We are open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am to 3pm, weather permitting. We also intend to open on Wednesday lunchtimes in August, should July trial openings be successful. Supporting Pierside Snacks is also supporting the pier.
Before anyone can set foot on the reconstructed pier, we are seeking donations to help us buy the new railings, so this is your opportunity to help us! We intend to install railings in keeping with the original style and modern safety requirements. There are several ways to help us along the way:
- Sponsor a plank for £100 and get your name on a plank. If you are interested in having your name on a plank or perhaps families having a cluster of planks, please email shotleypier@gmail.com so we can see how many people might like to do this. As there are a limited number of planks at this stage of renovations, it’s first come first served!
- Community shares are available for anyone who would like to become a part-owner of the Pier. One share costs only £25, with the average purchase being four shares for £100.
- You receive a certificate confirming your purchase. All shareholders get one vote so you also get an equal say in our decisions. We have taken votes at meetings and online, so you get a good opportunity to be involved whether you live near or far.
- You can also purchase community shares as gifts for others, whether for adults or children, with shares held in trust until a child reaches age 16. Community shares are inheritable and transferrable, but cannot be sold on the stock exchange, they are not tradeable shares. You should only purchase community shares if your main reason is to support the project, because the constitution does not allow the payment of a dividend.
- Donations would also be very much appreciated.
There is some great drone footage at the pier by volunteer Steve Trumm. To see his wonderful filming, search on YouTube for Steve Trumm Film Productions.
Watch this space for further news but if you would like more detailed information or wish to support us please contact us direct: 01473 780052 or shotleypier@gmail.com. Visit www.shotleypier.co.uk for more information too.