MCDT excited to share designs for new esplanade shelters

We are extremely excited to share the designs for two new shelters that are being planned for the Eastern Esplanade in Minehead.

​The project forms part of the wider Enterprising Esplanade scheme and is funded by the Coastal Communities Fund and Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation Fund secured by Somerset West and Taunton Council.

The two new proposed shelters will be erected on the pre-prepared bases on either side of the Pirate Ship Play Area on Minehead’s Esplanade and will provide a much-needed sheltered seating space for visitors and the community to enjoy the sweeping views across the bay and out to sea.

Minehead and Coast Development Trust (MCDT) has been working closely with Cerys Dehaini of Squirrels Architecture, a local architect with a passion for the town and protecting the natural environment.

MCDT’s Project Coordinator, Zara Aitken, said, “We are extremely excited to be working with Cerys, who is known for her responsible approach to sourcing materials and reducing the environmental impact of her projects. We have taken inspiration from the local natural and built environment and are committed to ensuring these new structures are sustainable by seeking to use salvaged and locally available materials, as well as reusing and recycling components as far as possible and ensuring the structures are robust and easy to maintain.”
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Much thought has been given to how these shelters might be used by the local community, which is reflected in the functional design and practical approach, with seating at multiple locations, both inside and outside, to ensure the structures can be used in all weather conditions. The proposed shelters will also provide protection from the elements, whether it’s from a prevailing wind, taking shelter from rain, or respite from the sun.

Consideration has also been given to additional features that might be useful to visitors and the local community, such as a noticeboard, water refill station, beach shower, phone/key lockers, and/or solar-powered lighting.

We are keen to hear your views on how these shelters might be used and any ideas you may have for useful features you’d like to see included.