Pier to partially close for essential repairs

A pier will be partially closed to the public for eight weeks from Monday to allow essential maintenance works to take place.

The closure of Ha'penny Pier at Harwich, Essex, follows a recent survey conducted by the owner, Harwich Haven Authority, that found deterioration of the pier substructure.

Access to the end of the pier will be restricted as damaged wooden parts are replaced.

The authority said it knew this would "disappoint some people" but it hoped they would "understand that repairs need to be completed at the earliest opportunity".

Chief executive officer Sarah West said: "As owners of Ha'penny Pier it is our responsibility to ensure the structure of the pier is safe.

"This is not the case for many similar wooden piers across the UK that have fallen into disrepair through lack of investment.

"Indeed, in the past 10 years we have spent more than £1.5m to keep one of Harwich's most iconic landmarks open for members of the public to enjoy."

The Ha'penny Pier opened in July 1853 and once served as a departure point for paddle steamers.

It was so called because of the ½d (half an old penny) toll charged for entry to visitors using the services.

The authority said the works, which would cost about £200,000, included replacing damaged timber beams and deck planks, with replacement timber - Douglas Fir, Ekki and Greenheart - sourced from certified and sustainable sources.

The public would still be able to access the Harbour Foot Ferry, the Deck 1853 restaurant, and the visitor centre, the authority said.

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