A row has broken out in Burnham-On-Sea over Sedgemoor District Council’s removal of a Victorian shelter on the town’s seafront amid concern that more may also be demolished.
The shelter, pictured below earlier in the year, has been completely demolished and removed following vandalism.
However, a group of residents and town councillors are upset that the structure was taken away without more consultation.
Town councillor Chris Williams told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “I and several residents are not happy with the very quick removal of this old shelter.”
“I have been approached by three residents who would have preferred to see it renovated and repaired, rather than completely removed.”
Cllr Neville Jones agreed it is a shame the shelter has been removed. He said at the latest town council meeting: “Our efforts must now be focussed on retaining the other shelters along The Esplanade.”
“These shelters do provide benefits to walkers and people sheltering from the weather. The seafront would be very bare and empty without them.”
Sedgemoor District Council recently said it had concerns about the deteriorating condition of the shelters and the related health and safety implications.
District council spokeswoman Claire Faun told Burnham-On-Sea.com on Thursday (November 12th): “The council has an obligation to act quickly when the condition of a structure is so poor that public safety could be put at risk. We did consult with the Town Council and advised them of the removal of the shelter.”
