Scarborough West Pier plans set out harbour upgrades

Scarborough’s West Pier, exposed for decades to salt, wind and heavy harbour use, is being lined up for a multi-million-pound regeneration scheme designed to keep it as both a working harbour and a visitor destination.

North Yorkshire Council has unveiled revised proposals for the historic pier in South Bay, saying long-term investment is needed to repair listed buildings, improve safety and protect the fishing industry that still operates from Scarborough Harbour.

The public consultation is now open and runs until Monday, 13 July, with residents, harbour users and businesses being asked to comment before a planning application is prepared.

Restored heritage buildings and new flood-resilient space

The revised scheme would repair and bring existing heritage facilities back into active use while retaining their character. Buildings that are no longer considered fit for purpose could be demolished to make way for new development.

Newer structures proposed for the pier would be designed for commercial use and built with flood resilience in mind. The plans also include improved public toilets, parking, kiosks, pedestrian routes and a paved plaza that could host outdoor events or cultural activity.

The council says the latest version has been shaped by feedback from harbour users and local stakeholders. Earlier plans submitted in February 2024 drew significant public interest and a wide range of representations.

Those changes include retaining a clearly defined working harbour area and improving fishery facilities, including new bait sheds and welfare provision. A previous proposal for a restaurant in Building 1 has been withdrawn, while flexible industrial space would be protected for a possible future boat lift and pier expansion.

For readers following the wider waterfront investment picture, hiyastar.co.uk has also covered how Scarborough West Pier proposals are linked to harbour jobs.

Why the pier now needs major investment

North Yorkshire Council says several buildings on Scarborough West Pier are in a dilapidated condition after long exposure to harsh marine conditions. The authority argues that without significant investment, the pier’s historic fabric, public safety and working harbour role will become harder to protect.

A public consultation held in September and October 2023 found that 91 per cent of respondents agreed intervention was needed to safeguard the pier.

Cllr Mark Crane, executive member for open to business with responsibility for economic development and regeneration, said the project was intended to transform the harbour and safeguard it for future generations.

“Many of the facilities on the West Pier are in urgent need of investment,” he said. “Our aim is to revitalise the pier so it can continue to support local businesses, while also becoming a more attractive and sustainable destination that can drive growth in the town.”

Key dates and funding behind the scheme

The Local Regeneration Fund was formerly known as the Towns Fund. In Scarborough, it has already supported improvements to the West Stand at Scarborough Cricket Club, teaching facilities at the Construction Skills Village and the year-round Scarborough Fair programme of arts, heritage and sporting events.

Another strand of the town’s regeneration programme has focused on Scarborough projects backed by the £20 million funding package.

Harbour businesses remain central to the redesign

The revised proposals put stronger emphasis on keeping the pier’s working harbour function separate and clear. That matters for fishing crews, marine services and traders who rely on practical access, storage and welfare facilities rather than purely visitor-facing development.

At the same time, the proposed plaza, kiosks and improved routes would change how visitors move through the harbour area. If approved, the scheme could give South Bay a more usable public space while keeping commercial harbour operations visible and protected.

Cllr Crane said some demolition would be required, but other buildings would be carefully repaired so Scarborough’s maritime heritage is preserved and celebrated.

Residents can comment before planning papers are finalised

The current consultation will be used to refine the West Pier scheme before a planning application is brought forward. The council is asking residents, businesses, harbour users and other stakeholders to review the revised plans and submit views by Monday, 13 July.

The project sits within wider investment plans for Scarborough Harbour, including infrastructure and facility improvements for people who use the harbour day to day.

Source: North Yorkshire Council