Sea-view pavilion set for restoration work

The pavilion in Langmoor Gardens overlooks Lyme Bay

A seafront park pavilion is set to be restored following a public campaign to save it from demolition.

The pavilion in Langmoor Gardens, Lyme Regis, Dorset, was due to be taken down earlier this year with the town council citing issues with anti-social behaviour and its poor state of repair.

However, more than 2,000 people signed a petition calling for it to be saved.

Lyme Regis Town Council subsequently said it would be restored to become a "focal point" in the gardens overlooking Lyme Bay.

'Treasured landmark'

Following the council decision to demolish it earlier this year, campaigners described the pavilion as "a beloved local landmark".

"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," an online petition said.

The council agreed to restore the structure, replacing everything from the roof down using marine ply timber and solid oak posts.

The whole structure is due be repainted, new benches installed and a rainwater harvesting tank fitted to supply water for use in the gardens.

Town councillors agreed the pavilion would be officially named the Garden Pavilion and a plaque installed with the words, "For all to rest a while".

Michaela Ellis, chairman of the council’s town management and highways committee, said the pavilion would become a "welcoming and inviting place" for the resort.

“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," she added.

The work is expected to take up to three weeks.