Scarborough pier building - and loos - closed after engineers identify possible structural issues
A building in Scarborough has been closed and tenants moved out after potential structural issues were discovered.
The public toilets within Building No1 on the West Pier – which is part of a major regeneration project led by North Yorkshire Council.
The closure will also see the loss of its public toilets – this follows hot on the heels of a controversial ‘community toilet initiative’ to be progressed by Scarborough Town Council whereby businesses would make their bathroom facilities available for use by the general public.
Structural engineers visited Building No1 on Thursday, February 27 and, after a visual inspection, expressed concern over part of its exterior, including its gable ends.
Building No1 includes eight units which are used as offices and studios.
Two are currently vacant and one is home to North Yorkshire Council’s beach superintendent.
All tenants are being contacted and alternative arrangements are being discussed ahead of further investigations next week.
North Yorkshire Council’s corporate director of resources, Gary Fielding, said: “The safety of those who work in the building and that of the general public is of paramount importance and that is why we have taken this decision.
“Further investigation work will be needed before we know the full extent of the issues and until we are satisfied there is no further risk the building will be cordoned off and access restricted.”
Public toilets which are part of the building will be closed as well.
Alternative toilet facilities remain open in the area, and they can be found at Vincent Pier which is 400m to the east and St Nicholas Gardens, 400m to the west.
Visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/toilets for further information on public toilets in the town.
The council says the West Pier regeneration scheme aims to breathe new life into the heart of Scarborough’s South Bay.
Work is under way to explore options for improving facilities and enhancing the surrounding area.
Further assessments are being carried out, and the council will engage with stakeholders later in the year.
Mr Fielding added: “This discovery underlines the importance of investing now to create facilities that are safe, modern and fit for purpose for years to come.”