Victorian seafront shelters to be restored
❝ It will be wonderful to see these pieces of Victorian history brought back to life and put into proper use again
IN their heyday they were used by the Victorians to shelter from the sun. But over recent years the shelters, which once stood proudly on Weston-superMare seafront, have become an eyesore – unloved and in a state of disrepair.
The three remaining shelters along the prom are one of a number that were put up during Victorian times for the throngs of visitors to the town.
Some of the structures and associated lavatory blocks have since found a new lease of life and have been redeveloped as seafront cafes.
Now the remaining shelters – which date back to the late 19th century – are to be restored to their former glory.
The structures were decommissioned last year after they were deemed unsafe and hoardings put around them.
Plans to restore had been put forward in 2019, but sadly had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Now, following pressure from Weston Civic Society, money has been found for a restoration project to start.
Civic Society member and North Somerset Council heritage champion Councillor John Crockford-Hawley said: “I am embarrassed to see them on the seafront in this state.”
The restoration project, which it is hoped will be completed by the autumn, will cost an estimated £40,000.
Money has come from North Somerset Council, the civic society and from the Weston Trust.
The trust was set up by the civic society following the sale of the heritage centre in Wadham Street and its move to Old Quarry.
Proceeds from the sale are held by the trust, which makes grants to projects across the town.
As the shelters, made out of timber, lead and limestone, are Grade II listed, much care will have to be taken in their restoration.
Mr Crockford-Hawley said: “The shelters were installed to accommodate visitors to Westonsuper-Mare. The Victorians were known not to like the sun and wanted somewhere to shield from the elements.
“It will be wonderful to see these pieces of Victorian history brought back to life and put into proper use again.”
The work will see the lead roof replaced and the panels restored.
The shelter will be glazed on the seaward side and kept open on the landward side and will be fitted with new timber seating.
Local businesses have also offered financial support to their restoration.
In the past, homeless people in the town have used the shelters as a place to sleep.