Garth Pier - A Brief History
The pier which is the 2nd longest in Wales, retains its intricate Victorian ironwork and was opened in 1896 by Lord Penrhyn. The pier was designed by London-based engineer JJ Webster and cost £17,000 to construct. Its primary purpose was to enable steamships from Liverpool and other places to bring passengers to Bangor. A narrow-gauge railway carried passengers’ luggage along the pier’s 472-metre length. Smaller vessels shuttled between Garth Pier and Llandegfan or Beaumaris on the opposite side of the Menai Strait. Unusually, the pier was not altered by the addition of theatres and other entertainment facilities.
The pier closed for safety reasons at the end of 1971. Ownership passed to Arfon Borough Council in 1974, who decided to demolish the structure. However, the City Council objected and listed building status was obtained for the pier, one of the finest in Britain. Eventually, the City Council took over the pier for a nominal 1p.
With help from the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the Welsh Office and the Manpower Services Commission, restoration began in November 1982 and the pier was officially re-opened on 7th May 1988 by the Marquis of Anglesey. Further restoration and maintenance has recently been completed.
When: Sunday 27th February
Where: Garth Pier
Time: 2.30-3pm
After the event we would like to invite all attendees in joining us in exploring the pier and surrounding areas.