The National Piers Society says it is delighted the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare will be brought back to life from the ashes.

Multi-million pound plans for a new pier pavilion were given the go-ahead by North Somerset Council on Thursday.

It followed a massive fire last July, which destroyed the pavilion and most of its contents in flames reaching temperatures as high as 1,000°C.

But pier owners Kerry and Michelle Michael immediately said they would resurrect the attraction as soon as it was possible.

With planning consent now awarded, building contractors will be appointed and could be on site within three weeks.

It is hoped the entertainment centre will be completed in time for next year's summer season.

The news has come as a delight to National Piers Society, which aims to promote and sustain interest in the preservation and continued enjoyment of seaside piers.

Mike Davies, who lives in Weston, is an executive committee member of the society.

He said: "When we had the fire I said the super had gone out of Weston-super-Mare.

"As far as I am concerned the new pier will put the super back into the town.

"I am highly delighted the plans have gone through and building work will be under way soon."

The new three-floor pavilion will be used as a family entertainment centre but will also be able to accommodate functions, concerts and other events.

On the end of the pier will be a 91-metre high observation tower with a moveable viewing deck.

The tower would provide a ride in which visitors are seated in a revolving viewing capsule which transports them to the top and back.

As the pier is going to be an all-year-round attraction, the design includes a central shelter along its waist, which becomes enclosed in winter.

A bus/coach layby and shelter will also be created on Marine Parade to drop off and pick up people.

Mr Michael said: "We want to make the Grand Pier in Weston the best pier in the world and we will continue the search that has been going on worldwide for the last few months to source rides and attractions."