“ESSENTIAL” works being carried out at Gorey Pier have taken longer than planned – but the removal of the deteriorating landing stage is now “largely complete”.
Ports of Jersey had previously hoped that the project, which forms part of wider plans to ensure the pier’s long-term stability, would finish “just ahead of the summer holidays”.
But the programme had to be extended due to a range of factors, including challenges stemming from the specialist scaffolding required, as well as minor design refinements and a period of “exceptionally hot weather” that reduced the number of safe working hours available.
It has involved work to remove the upper deck and support pillars as well as the installation of temporary support bracing from the lower deck to the original pier structure.
In a recent update sent to harbour users, Ports project and events support manager Kim Dréan said that the removal of the landing stage was “largely complete”.
But she added that this part of the programme had taken “longer than planned”, with the full works now expected to conclude by 9 October.
“While the demolition activities have progressed as anticipated, the scaffolding operations took significantly longer than originally forecast due to specialist scaffolding crash deck required to undertake the works safely and the complexity of working around a historic structure within a challenging marine environment,” Ms Dréan explained.
She highlighted that “projects of this nature frequently present unforeseen challenges once works are underway” and that “safety has remained the overriding priority”.
“Neither Ports of Jersey nor Jersey Demolition Contractors have sought to recover time at the expense of safe working practices,” Ms Dréan continued.
“These final weeks of work will focus on reinstating the area, including constructing new edge beams where concrete has been removed, installing new handrails, and resurfacing the asphalt walkway.”
She added that Ports of Jersey would “continue to work closely” with its contracting partners to complete the project safely and reopen the pier head to the public “at the earliest opportunity”.
“We know the extended programme will be disappointing for pier users, local residents and businesses, and we would like to thank everyone for their continued patience, understanding and cooperation while these essential works are completed.”
