People in Suffolk are being invited to get behind a community regeneration project pledging to breathe new life into a 122-year-old pier by investing in its future.
Shares offering residents the chance to own part of Shotley’s historic pier are now on sale thanks to the launch of a new share scheme.
Interested parties can, from 4pm today, purchase shares via the initiative’s crowdfunding website or by filling out a share form.
Members of the Shotley Heritage Community Benefit Society are to gather outside the Bristol Arms in Shotley Gate to launch the scheme this afternoon.
Pledges of £39,000 have already been received.
Project leader Sally Chicken said: “People who invest should do so for community reasons, this is not primarily a financial investment, as there will be no dividends.
“We welcome small purchases from £50 to ensure that everyone can take part in this unique community business.”
Built by the Marquis of Bristol for the ferry between Shotley Gate and Harwich, the pier has been used to transport munitions and take sailors from the HMS Ganges training ship.
Plans for its future include kiosks, fishing opportunities and a walkway, which will be restored in Victorian style, looking out over the river Stour.
Investors are being offered the chance to pop the final rivet, take part in a personalised boat trip and take a VIP flight over the pier in return for a minimum contribution of £50.
They have a five-week window of opportunity - until July 14 - to donate the cash.
Pier project founder member Derek Davis said: “This is a fabulous opportunity for the community and other backers from further afield, to take ownership of this Victorian pier, which is steeped in history.
“It is wonderful to see an idea bounced about in the Bristol Arms a couple of years ago, now taken up by villagers supported by the council and moving forward.”
The group plans to bring the pier back to be used by fishermen, sightseers, birdwatchers and for small yachts to berth alongside.
A fishing pontoon may be also be added.
Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/shotley-pier from 4pm to purchase a share.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here