Pier to partially close again for three months

A historical pier will be partially closed for three months in the new year so that essential maintenance can take place.

Timber beams and deck planks need replacing at Ha'penny Pier in the Essex port town of Harwich.

Last January the structure was also shut for an extended period, so damaged wooden parts could be replaced.

Harwich Haven Authority, which was set up in 1863 to preserve the port, said the latest works would help "protect the pier for future generations while keeping disruption to the public to a minimum".

James Ennos, the deputy construction and dredging manager for the project, said the repairs were needed after inspections raised safety concerns.

"These works will allow us to replace deteriorated timber using responsibly sourced materials," he said.

"The Ha'penny Pier is an important historic asset for Harwich and its visitors."

Once again, the public have been told they can still use the foot ferry, the Deck 1853 restaurant and the visitor centre.

The latest repairs are estimated to cost £115,000 and the authority hopes to be finished by the end of March.

Ha'penny Pier opened in 1853 and was named for its toll of half a penny.

It is 30m (98ft) in length, but it was twice as long before half of it burned down in 1927.

Harwich Haven Authority said work would take place during the day and noise disruption would be kept to a minimum.

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