Dozens walk along unsafe pier after gate lock cut

Dozens of people walked along an unsafe, storm-battered pier after its gate lock was cut open.

Roker Pier, in Sunderland, has been closed for repairs since October 2023 when it was struck by Storm Babet.

However, people were seen wandering along the structure on Saturday afternoon after the locks were broken.

Sunderland City Council said people were "advised" to leave and the pier had since been re-secured. An inquiry into the break-in continues.

In a statement, the authority said: "On Saturday 28 December, between 3 and 4pm, several people were advised to leave the pier for their own safety. This was after the gate lock had been cut open.

"Anyone going on to the pier creates a danger to themselves and to members of the emergency services who may need to assist them.

"The pier has been re-secured and remains closed until further notice."

The council submitted a planning application to repair the Grade II-listed structure at the end of last year, with work to set start in April.

The delay is to avoid disturbing birds which nest along the structure.

"While repair works are being finalised, Roker Pier remains closed because it is not safe for the public," Sunderland City Council said.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and business, said: "I would encourage anyone if they see anyone on the pier to report that as soon as possible.

"I know there's some frustrations that it's not open, but it's not open for a reason."

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