The closure of a pier has been extended due to delays to repairs. Worthing Borough Council discovered storm damage to the underside of Worthing Pier on October 4, closing it to the public six days later as a “safety precaution”, in the first event of its kind in 25 years. Contractors were forced to remove part of the pier’s iron support, which was snapped by what was believed to be a large piece of floating debris during severe weather.
Although the council has said the pier is not likely to collapse, the weight of the pier has increased on the remaining supports causing “extra strain” and the possibility of further damage. The council first hoped repairs could begin on October 15, taking several days to complete. However, it has since been reported that due to the suppliers not being able to obtain materials in time, works will not be able to take place until at least November 14 during the next spring low tides.
One of the pier's supports was believed to have been damaged by floating debris (Image: Worthing Borough Council) A spokesman for the council said: “In the meantime we are carrying out an interim repair to provide more support to the remaining piles and investigating whether there is a temporary solution that could allow us to open the pier before the full repair has taken place.” READ MORE: Pier closes suddenly over safety fears While the pier is closed, restaurants Tern and Perch on the Pier have also been forced to temporarily close their doors. Ter.