Another view of the pier with its Art Deco building. I recall that it was tastefully decorated and well maintained but was allowed to deteriorate through the 1960's on. The postcard was posted in August 1955 when I would have been 5 years old! Gladys writes 'This is a pretty little place. Pebbly beach, nice gardens, but very hilly.' [000] [001]
The pier was originally opposed as this newspaper report of 1881 indicates:
Penarth - Proposed Pier and Promenade - It is rumoured that the Penarth Dock and Harbour Company intend opposing the Bill for the construction of a pier and promenade on Penarth Beach. The company base their opposition on the plea that the pier would interfere with their interests, as it would impede the navigation of vessels into the dock and Ely river. It is very much to be regretted if the opposition is preserved as a pier and promenade is very much needed at Penarth, and it is stated that the head of the pier will not interfere in the slightest degree with the course of the vessels entering and leaving the dock and harbour. South Wales Daily News [325] 29th January 1881.
But only four months later the opposition had seemingly evaporated:
Penarth Pier - Westminster, Thursday - The Pier and Harbour Provisional Orders (No. 1) Bill to-day came before the Unopposed Bill Committee of the House of Commons, presided over by Mr Leonard Courtney (Chairman of the Ways and Means). Among the orders was one for the construction, maintenance, and regulation of a pier at Penarth, Glamorganshire. The committee allowed the Bill to pass, and it will in due course be reported to the House.' South Wales Daily News [325] 6th May 1881.
