Lake Pier repair work to begin in autumn costing up to £330k

Lake Pier in Hamworthy has been in a state of disrepair since before June when BCP Council shut it over public safety concerns. 

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

Earlier this year, BCP Council said it would only be able to reopen if money is found. 

But now the authority is looking to allocate up to £330,000 of community infrastructure levy (CIL) funding to complete a major refurbishment. 

A spokesman for BCP Council said: “Considering its important role as a mooring and fuelling point for boats during the Second World War, the council has listened to residents' concerns and worked hard to ensure the preservation of this culturally significant structure. 

“The major refurbishment will enable handrails to be replaced along the pier, as well as repairs to its timber foundations and surrounding dolphin timber piles. The project will also see harbour defences, including the pier’s rock armour, strengthened.   

“Projects to enhance the signage, public rescue equipment and beach access at the site have recently been completed.” 

Work is expected to begin in the autumn and will take between 12 to 15 weeks to complete – weather depending. 

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

The spokesman added: “We would like to thank residents for their continued patience and understanding whilst the pier has been closed.” 

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.