The Friends of Bangor Garth Pier (FBGP) have submitted a planning application to convert the former Pier Master’s House at the entrance to Bangor’s celebrated Victorian pier into a short-term holiday let, with all income dedicated to safeguarding and maintaining the iconic structure.

The proposal follows the charity’s recent success in raising £40,000 to complete urgent substructure repairs-part of FBGP’s long-term mission to protect Garth Pier, a Grade II* listed landmark and one of Wales’ longest surviving pleasure piers. The 1,500-ft (457m) structure, built in 1896 and named the National Piers Society’s “Pier of the Year” in 2022, attracts thousands of visitors annually and offers panoramic views across the Menai Strait, Anglesey, and the mountains of Eryri.

FBGP’s new income-generating proposal seeks to transform the disused Pier Master’s House – vacant since 2022 – into a unique seafront holiday stay. The property has long been tied to pier operations and has never functioned as an open-market home. Its location beside the pier entrance, lack of garden space, and absence of private parking render it unsuitable for permanent residential use.

Under the plans, FBGP would lease the building from Bangor City Council and manage it as a three-bedroom holiday let, with visitors using the adjacent public car park. Revenue would be channelled directly back into pier repairs, maintenance, and operational costs, supporting both the pier’s long-term future and the local economy.

“Repurposing the Pier Master’s House is a practical and sustainable way to support ongoing restoration work while offering visitors a truly memorable place to stay,” the planning submission explains. The charity believes the holiday let could help boost tourism in the area and encourage increased spending in local businesses, reinforcing the economic and cultural vibrancy of the community—including the continued vitality of the Welsh language.

The proposal forms part of a wider vision to revitalise the waterfront area surrounding the pier, making it a more attractive destination for both visitors and residents. As no external changes to the building are planned, the scheme is expected to preserve the character of the historic setting while introducing a valuable new source of financial support for the pier.

Bangor Garth Pier, once threatened with demolition before being purchased by the council for just 1p in 1975, has undergone significant restoration in recent years, including a £1 million repair programme completed in 2022. FBGP say the proposed holiday let is a logical next step in ensuring the pier remains safe, loved, and accessible for generations to come.

A public consultation on the application is currently open and runs until 8 December.