Lyme Regis Pavilion to Be Restored Following Public Campaign

A pavilion situated in a seafront park is scheduled for restoration, a decision that follows a public initiative aimed at preventing its demolition. Located in Langmoor Gardens, Lyme Regis, Dorset, the pavilion had been slated for removal earlier this year. The town council had cited concerns regarding anti-social behaviour and its dilapidated condition as reasons for its proposed demolition. Nevertheless, a petition advocating for its preservation garnered over 2,000 signatures. Following this, Lyme Regis Town Council announced its intention to restore the structure, aiming for it to serve as a “focal point” within the gardens, which offer views of Lyme Bay. After the council’s earlier decision to proceed with demolition, campaigners had characterized the pavilion as “a beloved local landmark.” An online petition stated, “This decision has left our community devastated. Not only does it rob us of a treasured piece of our town’s character, but it also threatens tourism – an essential component of our local economy.” The council has committed to restoring the edifice, which will involve replacing all components from the roof downwards with marine ply timber and solid oak posts. Plans also include repainting the entire structure, installing new benches, and fitting a rainwater harvesting tank to provide water for the gardens. Town councillors have reached an agreement that the pavilion will be officially designated the Garden Pavilion, and a plaque bearing the inscription, “For all to rest a while,” will be affixed. Michaela Ellis, who chairs the council’s town management and highways committee, commented that the pavilion is intended to become a “welcoming and inviting place” for the resort. She further stated, “The council is thrilled to work in partnership with young people and local volunteers on enhancing the pavilion and the surrounding area and we hope once this work is completed, it will be respected and looked after.” The restoration efforts are anticipated to conclude within three weeks. For updates, BBC Dorset can be followed on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. This content is copyrighted by BBC in 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for material found on external websites and provides information on its external linking policy.