After careful consideration, it was decided that the Fund was unable to support the project.

Carole Souter, Chief Executive of HLF, said: “We recognise the significant amount of work and dedication that Colwyn Victoria Pier Trust, a community-run organisation, has put into this application. We are also aware of the high level of local support for the restoration of this Grade II listed pier.

“HLF takes its role of investing National Lottery players’ money extremely seriously and we only support projects that we are confident can deliver long-term benefits. Unfortunately, we have not had a clear enough indication of strong support from Conwy County Borough Council (CCBC). In light of this as well as the absence of other confirmed financial support and the potential for increased costs, the application was deemed high risk.

“All unsuccessful applicants are able to reapply to HLF. We are happy to meet with the trust to give more detailed feedback on their application. Should the trust wish to reapply, we would be keen to encourage them to pursue greater involvement from CCBC.”

Background

• In 2013, HLF earmarked funding to Conwy County Borough Council (CCBC) to help them develop plans to restore Colwyn Bay’s Victoria Pier. CCBC secured an initial £594,900 development grant plus the opportunity to work up an application for a £4.4m grant. CBBC was unable to progress its plans successfully and has since withdrawn support for the regeneration of Victoria Pier
• To date, HLF has awarded £8.85m to 89 projects in Conwy, including Colwyn Bay
• HLF has awarded over £21m to eight piers across the UK, including Penarth Pier, Hastings Pier and Cleveland Pier

Further information

Naomi Williams, Positif, on tel: 029 2044 2020, mobile: 07999 983 934, or via email: naomi@positifgroup.co.uk.

Katie Owen, HLF press office, on tel: 020 7591, 6036 mobile: 07973 613 820, or via email: KatieO@hlf.org.uk.