A historic pier has been brought back into use after the completion of major refurbishment.
Work has been taking place at Hamworthy’s Lake Pier since the autumn, and public access has now been restored.
Funding for the £330,000 was secured through the Community Infrastructure Levy – a planning charge on new developments that is then reinvested in local facilities – with the project delivered on budget.
Steel has been used to re-strengthen the structure, and new side beams and handrails have been installed throughout the length of the pier, with rock used to reinforce 55 metres of harbour frontage to protect the pier head and car park from coastal erosion.
Cllr Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, said: “This crucial work has helped secure the future of Lake Pier as we head towards its 100th anniversary.
“I am particularly pleased that we have been able to re-invest Community Infrastructure Levy funds into fixing the pier’s structure. Funding projects in this way ensures we are able to improve facilities that matter most to their communities.
“I would like to thank our partners who have helped us ensure access to the Pier can be safely restored once again, and I know this news will be welcomed by all in the surrounding community.”
The timber pier was built in 1939 and was used as a fuelling station throughout the Second World War. Prior to this, a structure here was used for barges associated with the extraction of clay.
But the pier has felt the effects of extreme weather over recent years and work was commissioned to ensure it remained safe for public use; the improvements will help extend the life of the pier beyond its 100th year of use.
Key repairs were identified during a 2023 safety inspection, and the environmentally sensitive position of the pier meant construction work could only take place during certain weeks, but, with all repairs now complete, the public can once again access the pier.
