REAPIR work to a pier that is in a “state of disrepair” is expected to begin soon. 

Hamworthy’s Lake Pier was closed in June 2023 when BCP Council deemed the historic structure unsafe for public use. 

BCP Council previously said the repair work will begin in the autumn, and a spokeswoman has since confirmed this will begin once the contractor (Fordingbridge-based Earlcoate Construction & Plant Hire Ltd) has settled on a start date. 

Completing the £300,000 work is expected to take between 12 to 15 weeks to complete – but this is weather dependent. 

The major refurbishment work is to be funded by the community infrastructure levy (CIL), a charge which can be levied by local authorities on new development in their area. 

Once completed, BCP Council said the refurbishment will help extend the life of the pier by up to 20 years. 

(Image: Daily Echo)

Structural examinations have revealed issues with the struts, wooden handrails and ageing timber of the pier. 

BCP Council said: “The pier was closed in summer 2023 after condition surveys highlighted structural failings, particularly to the handrails, and raised health and safety concerns for the public. 

“The works to the pier consist of repairs to the existing timber structure, so that it can be returned to a safe condition and to extend its useable life span.” 

Last year, BCP Council’s flood and coastal erosion risk management team got permission to replace the gabion baskets (cages holding stones) and improve access to the beach.   

A council report described the old 48-metre stretch of baskets as in a “failed state”.  

The report warned without intervention, it could lead to a loss of the car park edge and in time, the access point to the pier structure.   

The repair work will be completed at an unspecified date using money from the Levelling Up fund. 

It will include repairs to Hamworthy Park’s seawall rock and replenishment work at Holes Bay. 

Built in 1939, Lake Pier was initially used to service and refuel a flying boat service in Poole Harbour.  

There was previously a medium risk following a check for unexploded ordnance as the area was a target for the Luftwaffe during the Second World War.  

Lake Pier is at an inner harbour sand and shingle beach close to Ham Common Nature Reserve and is a Special Site of Scientific Interest.