The pier, known as the Pier Bandstand, was the subject of an architectural competition run under the supervision of the Royal Institute of British Architects. V.J.Venning’s design was chosen from twenty-six entries and the pier was subsequently built, opening on 25th May 1939 to a length of 200 feet.

On clear summer evenings, it was the ideal venue. However, with only 800 of the 2400 seats under cover, rain would inevitably cause the inadequate shelters along each side of the auditorium to become overcrowded.

In the 1970s, facilities included amusements, a restaurant and a gift shop. However, by the mid-1980s, the actual bandstand section had become too expensive to maintain and it was demolished in April/May 1986, leaving just the entrance on the esplanade.

In 2007 a redevelopment scheme was proposed for Weymouth seafront to be completed in time for the 2012 Olympic Games. It was envisaged that the scheme could include the restoration and extension the pier bandstand. The Art Deco exterior would be restored, and the upper floor extended out to sea, with new facilities provided on the ground floor.

However, in 2009, the South West Regional Development Agency’s (SWRDA) announced it was withdrawing the £6.6million it had pledged to the project, which now seems very uncertain.

National Piers Society

Celebrating Seaside Piers

Weymouth Pier Bandstand

Weymouth Pier Bandstand

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