Pier into pavilion's future (From Penarth Times)

Pier into pavilion's future

A PROCESS which could see Penarth Pier pavilion transformed into a cinema, restaurant, state-of-the-art leisure facility or festival complex is now under way.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council has invited private-sector companies and groups to outline projects for the restoration and redevelopment of the pavilion and the Italian shelter on the seafront.

A spokeman for the Vale Council said: "Penarth Pier pavilion is in need of a great deal of restoration and repair work, and although the council wishes to retain ownership of the building, it recognises that the needs of the pier might best be met by a partnership with the private sector.

"The council will consider applications for the pier to be used for leisure, food and drink provision, community uses, business and other types of usage that will be considered on their own merits.

"The council is unlikely to consider applications to use the pier for residential developments or primary retail use, and any applications to subdivide the building.

"Applicants will be expected to clearly define how they will use the building, to provide a business plan and to set out their intentions to carry out the repair work.

"As the pier is a listed building, we would expect applicants to justify any alterations."

Under the terms of the new lease, the investor would have to carry out works of restoration to a required standard.

The pavilion is a grade II listed building with a 350m auditorium, a solarium and balconies.

It was used as a music hall up until the Second World War and during the conflict it was used to stage concerts for troops stationed in the Vale, including American naval and air force personnel.

In the 1960s the building became a nightclub known as the Commodore Club.