It was intended to extend Weymouth's esplanade, and consists of a theatre, Weymouth Pavilion, pleasure pier, car parking and a cross-channel ferry terminal.
There is little documented history of the origins of Weymouth Pier, though it is believed that a structure existed as early as 1812.
The southern side of the deck was reserved for commercial use, and was fitted out to load and unload cargo from harbour ships, including electric cranes, electrically operated capstans and two railway tracks.
The northern side, fenced off from the industrial section, was a promenade area.
This included shelters, a diving stage, changing rooms, and at night the whole promenade area would be illuminated, with views across Weymouth Bay and Nothe Fort.