Conwy council plans to buy Colwyn Bay's closed pier

The Colwyn Bay pier is in a dilapidated condition

Conwy council has voted to press ahead with plans to buy the Grade II-listed Colwyn Bay Pier.

Victoria Pier has been closed and in the care of trustees since its ex-owner was made bankrupt in 2008, after a business rates and council tax row.

Last week, the council's cabinet recommended the authority should try to buy the pier and work with a community group to restore it.

But former owner Steve Hunt wants an inquiry into the council's actions.

It was reported on Tuesday that Mr Hunt had gone on hunger strike in protest against Conwy council.

A special meeting of its full council was held on Wednesday, and voted to hold discussions about the 111-year-old pier in private.

Motörhead

Originally built in 1900, the pier was once a hub of Colwyn Bay's social life, hosting stars such as Morecambe and Wise, Ken Dodd, Harry Secombe, heavy metal band Motörhead, and singer Elvis Costello.

But, following Mr Hunt's bankruptcy order, five years of work to restore it came to an end.

Basic renovation of the pier, currently in the care of bankruptcy trustees Royce, Peeling and Green Ltd, would cost an estimated £3.5m.

The pier could still return to Mr Hunt's ownership, if it is not sold.

Now Mr Hunt says he is going on hunger strike, refusing to eat or drink anything except water, until the council is investigated.