Boscombe - Pier of the Year

The newly restored pier at Boscombe has been voted Pier of the Year 2010 by the National Piers Society. Boscombe pier, which has previously been described as “one of the coolest piers in the country” by UK designer Wayne Hemingway, beat 10 others shortlisted in the annual poll of the Society’s 600 members. The award is designed to acknowledge and reward commitment to restoring piers. Councillor Anne Filer, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said: "I’m delighted that Boscombe has won this prestigious award in the year that we are celebrating Bournemouth’s bicentenary. The newly restored pier will provide a lasting legacy for future generations of residents and visitors." Commenting on the award, Gavin Henderson from the National Piers Society said: “For too long second fiddle to its sister pier at Bournemouth, Boscombe pier now deservedly shines in its own right." In contrast to the wrought-iron and ornate detail of Britain’s Victorian piers, Boscombe Pier is a stylish post modern structure featuring a Grade II listed entrance building with a distinctive ‘flying wing’ design. It also features a central windbreak with historic panels telling the fascinating story of the pier. The Grade II listed building was completely refurbished in 2008 including repairs to the concrete structure, replacement of the structurally unsound end section with a new viewing platform, new wooden decking, handrails, lighting and windbreak. Most recently, additional public benches have been installed from where the public can sit and enjoy the view. On hearing of the award, John Amos, chairman of the Friends of Boscombe Pier group ‘Inspieration’, said: “Boscombe Pier offers an attractive and distinctive alternative to other piers with arcades, bars and theatres. Winning the Pier of the Year award is a great honour and everyone involved in the pier’s restoration, reopening and the events held on it since can feel very proud.” The award will be presented at the Society’s Annual General Meeting in Bournemouth on Saturday 12 June at 2pm.

For more information on Boscombe - Pier of the Year talk to Macrete Ireland Ltd