There is nothing preventing Aberaeron’s historic South Pier from collapsing beyond "a hope and a prayer", the town mayor has warned.

Cllr Elizabeth Evans fears that the dilapidated pier – which has been cordoned off for over 11 years due to safety issues – is in danger of falling into the sea due to Welsh Government "inaction".

And although Ceredigion County Council has confirmed funding from Cardiff Bay has been awarded, Cllr Evans has now expressed frustration that the structure – which dates back to Napoleonic times – still appears no nearer a much-needed overhaul.

“Welsh Government inaction on this issue is beyond comprehension,” she told the Cambrian News.

“The bid for funding for the rebuilding of the South Pier has been sitting on the minister’s desk for over two years.

“Whilst we wait for a long overdue decision by Welsh Government, the deterioration of the pier continues, and I know Ceredigion officers are not only extremely frustrated but very fearful that it will fall before any monies are forthcoming.

“There is nothing holding the pier up now beyond a hope and a prayer.”

Ceredigion council confirmed it had been awarded funding by the Welsh Government to proceed with a coastal defence scheme, which included works to South Pier.

But this has failed to satisfy Cllr Evans who believes progress is still negligible.

“We have been here before,” she said. “Welsh Government is funding the design stage and this is the second time the county council has been asked to draw up a detailed design scheme.”

“The sense of frustration we feel as a community is beyond tipping point,” she added. “If South Pier collapses I won’t be pointing the finger at Ceredigion council but Welsh Government inaction.”

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