Press Statement 06/10/10

The owner of the new-look Weston Grand Pier today announced that it is hoped it will be open in time for the October half-term holidays.

Pier owner Kerry Michael made the following statement today:
Ever since the devastating fire of July 2008, the public interest in the Grand Pier has been immense.

“We continue to be surprised every day by the amount of interest in this wonderful iconic structure and I would like to share with you our forthcoming plans as we work towards the re-opening of the Grand Pier and Pavilion.

“We continue to work closely with our main contractors John Sisk and Son who have today confirmed that they expect to complete their works on the Pavilion by Friday the 22nd of October.

“They have also confirmed that we will have access from today to start fitting out the building with our fixtures and fittings.
“Assuming this all goes to plan, we believe that we can open in time for the school half-term holidays starting on October 23rd.

“We are confident that the new Pavilion, with its state-of-the-art rides, attractions, function rooms and wedding venues will be a big hit with locals and tourists alike.

“We have a full diary of events scheduled throughout the winter season including Christmas Parties and Boxing Matches. We will also be hosting the Grand Final of Miss Great Britain on December 4th.

“We have spent an incredible amount of time and money to deliver what we believe is the best Pier on the world. We hope you think so too.

Thank you.

IT’S ALL GO ON THE KART TRACK

Engineers are currently testing out the new Go Kart track on Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier. The 300 metre long track is the biggest ride on the Pier and cost £1 million to manufacture. It is the only electronic floor pick-up in the UK and runs over two levels.

The Go Karts are being run flat out to make sure they will be able to deal with the hundreds of people who want to have a go on this thrilling ride when the Grand Pier opens.

Ten karts are being run at a time, with ten others loading. Two additional karts have two seats so small children can ride with their parents.

The Go Kart track will be available for exclusive hire for birthday parties and corporate events. Experienced drivers will be able to drive at speeds of up to 60mph. There will even be a Go Kart school. Children from eight to 15 can sign up for the school which will take them through beginner, intermediate and advanced driver training.

Karting lessons can be booked on either Saturday or Sunday mornings from 9am to 10.30am. Each child will be issued with their own driving licence which will chart their progress through the school.

Regular Grand Prix events will be run from September where drivers can qualify, run in at least two heats and then take part in a final race to find the overall winner.
Pier owner Kerry Michael said: “Everyone always asks me about the Go Kart track. We had just built a new one when the Pavilion building was destroyed in the fire, so a lot of people remember that. This one is bigger and better and it is the first thing you notice when you walk into the Pavilion. Everyone wants to have a go, so we’re just making sure it is up to the job of being run flat out all day. I have no shortage of volunteers from my staff to help me do that”

For further information on corporate events or the Go Kart school email russell.mabley@grandpier.co.uk


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