Wigan’s most iconic landmark, Wigan Pier, is about to embark on a new chapter, as Wigan Council announces plans to host a series of events there.
The events schedule will kick off in October following the official launch of Wigan’s new cultural strategy, with full details being confirmed on 18th September.
The council says the first phase of regeneration of the area has been a success, where historic buildings have been restored to their former glory.
The recent work has focused on essential maintenance and safety improvements to prepare the space for temporary event use. This has included general repairs and improving accessibility with the installation of ramps.
Pier 4 and 5 (the old ‘Way We Were’ museum) will be used as the official events space, and will host an eclectic mix of music, theatre and entertainment for all ages when it launches in October.
Wigan Council says it is in ‘advanced talks’ with a potential tenant for Pier 2 with an announcement expected soon.
Council officials also confirmed that the operator will complement its vision for the landmark to become a year-round destination for culture and creativity.
From a personal point of view.
For me, this is welcome news as I feel the whole area round the Pier needs a lot of attention. The Pier nightclub was demolished in 2014 after being derelict for years. It was replaced with a grassed and gravel area, and the area given the name ‘The Pier Quarter’. In 2016, The Orwell Pub closed down and there has been nothing there since.
The famous Way We Were museum was closed even earlier than these, in 2007, and again, since then, nothing has happened there.
Wigan Pier itself (actually a replica) but world famous due to the book ‘The Road to Wigan Pier” written by George Orwell, is obscured by weeds and plants. There did used to be a statue of a woman there, but that was vandalised, so has been removed, leaving behind a sign which tells the story of a now non-existent statue.
So, I’m very much looking forward to hearing the council’s plans, and hoping they are put into practice, along with recognising the heritage of the place.. I think it’s been quite a few years there now we’ve been told something is coming, so fingers crossed something concrete is announced on 18 September!
Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux, MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to open the next chapter for Wigan Pier. Our new cultural strategy, The Fire Within The Forge, places creative collaboration at the heart of the borough’s identity.
“Coupled with an exciting events calendar and exciting tenant conversations, we’re confident Wigan Pier will become a hub of inspiration and activity once again.”
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