Plans for the redevelopment of the 104-year old Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare have been submitted to North Somerset Council (NSC), five months after the attraction was severely damaged by fire.

Bristol-based architect, Angus Meek, was appointed in October by pier owners, Kerry and Michelle Michael, following a design competition for the new pavilion, which will replace the one destroyed in July's blaze. Since the original concept design was unveiled, several enhancements have been made which include an 85m (279ft) observation tower at the sea end of the pier offering views overlooking the resort and the Severn estuary. The main building has also been redesigned to look more like the previous pavilion.

Further amendments to the plans include a 250-seat conference facility, alterations to canopies in order to provide a weatherproof connection from the shore to the pavilion, rooftop thrill rides and an Edwardian tea room which will double as a wedding venue with a capacity of 125 people. Kerry Michael said: "We have a unique opportunity to create something special to be enjoyed by both our visitors and locals alike. We have travelled extensively looking at options and we believe these rides and attractions will bring something new to Weston while retaining the atmosphere of a lively, traditional pier."

English Heritage and Natural England, together with NSC, have been involved in the design process, and Michael hopes that the pier will be ready to open by summer 2010. Listed building consent will also be applied for this week to allow for works to be carried out on the pier's sub-structure before construction starts on the new pavilion.