Wellington Pier has been granted approval by Great Yarmouth Borough Council to double the size of its arcade by redeveloping a vacant plot to the south of the attraction, with councillors welcoming the project as “needed” to keep the resort competitive.

Family Amusements originally submitted the proposals for the all-weather facilities in August 2024, noting the modern extension would enable the pier to offer entertainment year-round and help Great Yarmouth retain its reputation as a leading tourist destination.

“The project will mean two neighbouring seafront kiosks will be demolished to make way for the extension, which will be built on land that once hosted an outdoor roller-skating rink,” reported the Eastern Daily Press. “The scheme had faced backlash from Historic England, which complained it was too large and would harm the heritage of the seafront.”

“However, after scaled-back designs were submitted, Great Yarmouth Borough Council’s development committee approved the designs at a meeting this week. The projects were praised by councillors, who said they will boost the seafront and help keep visitors coming back.”

During the meeting, committee chair Tony Wright said: “This is another scheme which will bring significant investment to the seafront and provide income for local businesses at a time when it is needed. This is a good project that will move Yarmouth forward.”