Following the part-destruction of Teignmouth Pier by Storm Ingrid earlier this month, the Brenner family have revealed that the increasing severity and unpredictability of storms are posing an existential threat to the 160-year-old structure.
In a recent update to the family’s fundraising campaign, Maddie Brenner highlighted the fact that the landmark “has been uninsurable for storm damage” since a £800,000 claim in 2014, with all subsequent repairs having to be paid for by the family themselves.
“Storms have become more frequent and severe,” said Maddie Brenner. “This has created a consistent cycle of structural maintenance.”
“On top of this, due to the lack of sand, the Pier has become more exposed than ever, putting strain on the piles. This is the most serious issue and possibly the least visible and known, as the sand acts as a natural buffer, protecting the piles from the full force of the sea.”
Since 2014, the Brenner family has invested nearly £750,000 of their own money into “essential, unseen structural work,” allocating the “limited funds to where they’re most needed.”
“The reasoning behind not restoring the end of the Pier after the 2014 storm is simply financial. The insurance didn’t cover anything below the deck; the piles and beams weren’t covered, and our funds couldn’t stretch to cover this.”
Originally published on Coinslot on February 9, 2026. Republished with permission.