Views sought on pier restoration

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People are being asked for their views on plans to build a new hotel, offices and restaurants to help safeguard a landmark pier.

The £39m regeneration scheme is planned in Swansea and includes the restoration of Mumbles pier.

The family firm which has owned the tourist attraction for 70 years says around £4m of repair work was essential.

It hopes to fund this by building a hotel and other facilities nearby.

Swansea council has backed a framework to guide plans for the revamp but wants the public's view before detailed proposals are drawn-up.

The pier is one of city's most striking features.

People have until 17 October to offer their views.

The proposals, by the pier's owners Ameco, have now been made available electronically on the council's website.

Plans include a hotel and spa, a conference and exhibition centre, restaurants, improved public spaces and a new boardwalk facility linking Knab Rock to the pier.

Council leader Chris Holley said: "It's our aim to make the most of Swansea Bay's enormous potential and to develop a world-class destination that can compete with the best in Europe.

There has been a pier at Mumbles since 1898.

"Redevelopment in Mumbles will play a big role in helping us realise that objective but it's vitally important the people of Swansea get an opportunity to have their say on any proposals.

"All views will be taken on board and we'd encourage people to come forward with their feedback.

"Mumbles Pier is a famous attraction and this draft development framework will guide exciting plans to restore it for future generations to enjoy."

A spokesperson for Ameco said: "Ever since we revealed our plans for the redevelopment of the pier we have received extremely positive feedback and we welcome the opportunity to hear even more views.

"We believe our plans ensure the pier's future while creating a premier tourist destination."

Ameco said annual maintenance was no longer sufficient to safeguard the 250m (820ft) pier's future and meet health and safety requirements.

It said around 450 jobs would be created during construction and between 200 - 250 after completion.

There is a RNLI lifeboat station on the pier and the crew are due to receive a larger state-of-the-art lifeboat by 2011, for which they will need a larger station.