WORK is set to start today (October 1) to revamp Marine Lake, in Weston-Super-Mare, including creating a new concession stand, storage facilities, improving signs and more.

The scheme is part of a North Somerset Council (NSC) plan to enhance the tidal lake, with Weston-based firm EJ McGrath Construction carrying out the work.

Swimmers will still be able to use the lake until Monday (October 6), when it will close, with work set to be completed by April next year.

The Marine Lake revamp in Weston-super-Mare includes:

• improving signage around the lake and installing a new welcome sign at the entrance to improve visibility
• utilising and repurposing under-used space to create a new concession, equipment hire and storage facility
• upgrading and increasing the number of public toilets in use, including one accessible toilet, while changing them to self-contained cubicles with direct entry from the promenade
• installing cycle racks
• improving access by repairing, resurfacing or rebuilding steps and ramps, and upgrading handrails
• repairing and resurfacing the lower walkway around the lake
• repairing the Madeira Gardens pavilion roof

Councillor Mike Solomon, NSC executive member responsible for seafronts, said: “It’s great to see work starting on our plans to further enhance Marine Lake by developing year-round facilities for food and drink, and leisure activities.

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“We want to see the family-friendly venue develop as a safe place for people of all ages to enjoy a range of water-based activities. This work will make a positive difference to this much-loved destination on Weston’s seafront.

“It’s a key priority for the council to involve the local community in shaping plans. I was delighted that over 120 people attended the Grove Park Gathering event last summer and to see that those people’s comments fed the plans now being delivered.

“I’m grateful to the Weston Marine Lake Mudlarks, a group of volunteers who assist with the management of the lake, for their presence at the event and their ongoing work with us.

“We’re currently working closely with the Mudlarks to look at innovative ways to fund ongoing maintenance and dredging of the lake, including supporting grant applications.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused while the work is being carried out but we’re sure people will be very pleased with the improvements once complete.”

Liam McGrath, of EJ McGrath Construction, said: “We are very pleased to have been appointed as main contractor for this scheme. The works we delivered on Weston seafront’s main promenade in 2012 still look fantastic today, and we are now looking forward to improving Marine Lake and continuing to make a positive impact on the town where our family-run business is proudly based.”

People can find out more about the plans, including detailed drawings, on the council’s website. The planning application, reference 25/P/0855/R3, was approved last month.

The project is being funded from part of £20 million awarded to NSC from the UK government.

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