A BOURNEMOUTH resident has launched a campaign to ‘save the pier’ after accusing the council of letting it ‘rot into the sea’.

Susan Whitton, 46, has created a change.org petition calling for BCP Council to spend money on Bournemouth Pier.

It comes after the council confirmed a recent structural survey identified issues on the iconic structure.

She said: “The council have not done anything in the 20 years I have lived here and so the pier has gotten to such a bad state.

“The pier is the pinnacle of Bournemouth and should be showcased.”

The change.org campaign launched by Susan accuses the council of letting the pier ‘rot into the sea’ and suggests money should be spent to ‘repair and dredge the landing stages’ so that the pleasure cruises can return.

Susan added: “I’d like to get the (paddle streamer) PS Waverley back because that used to be the highlight of people’s holidays.

“It was lovely on a sunny day to watch these boats coming from Poole Quay one after the other.

“At the moment none of this can happen as the landing stages are in danger of falling in the sea.

“It means all there is for people to do is sit and drink on the beach and then us residents are left to clear up the mess.”

Read more: Bournemouth Pier 'rotting away'

Susan said she hopes the petition will help in saving the pier for future generations before it is gone forever.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “The council has recently undertaken a structural survey of the iconic Bournemouth Pier to identify any areas requiring maintenance or replacement, the results of which are currently being finalised. During this survey, we became aware of some issues around the Upper East Side landing stage.

“As a precaution, we have temporarily suspended access to this area until remedial works can be carried out to the stairs and fenders. It is anticipated that it will be operational by the summer so pleasure boats can once again utilise the Pier as a stopping point. In the meantime, the rest of the Pier’s attractions and restaurants remain open for business.

“BCP Council welcomes the views of all residents and visitors.”