College campaign to share Winter Gardens memories

Weston College has started a campaign asking people to share their memories, photographs and thoughts for the future of the Winter Gardens Pavilion in Weston-super-Mare.

Posting in the ‘Weston-super-Mare – Then and Now’ Facebook group, Dr Paul Phillips OBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, asked for people to get in touch and share their stories.

He wrote: “The Winter Gardens is an iconic part of the Weston-super-Mare seafront, and we think it's incredibly important to preserve local history and ensure that the past lives on in the exciting future of the building.

“I would love to hear any memories you have about the Winter Gardens, see any pictures you have of the venue back in its glory days, or read any thoughts you have about the building's future.”

The College completed the transfer of the building during the first week of May, and has since tidied the fish pond area and removed signage from the seafront part of the building.

Signs from the former Tourist Information Centre are to be given to the town council, with the intention of using them for the new centre, which will be opened in the Tropicana.

The Winter Gardens is currently undergoing structural surveys and work is set to commence in the coming weeks.

The historic 1920s part of the building will be refurbished and available for public use. The rear 1980s extension will be redeveloped to create a Law and Professional Services Academy and University Centre.

If you would like to share your memories, photos, or any thoughts for the future of the venue, contact the College at [email protected]. The memories will be shared on the Winter Gardens’ new Facebook page: www.facebook.com/WestonWinterGardens.