Extensive Damage Discovered at Worthing Pier

The scope of repairs for Worthing Pier is expected to be more extensive than first anticipated, following the discovery of additional damage. The pier, located in West Sussex, was shut down on 10 October after engineers identified storm-related damage to one of its underlying supports. After contractors removed one pile, they found concealed damage affecting other supports. Adur & Worthing Councils issued a statement, explaining: “We believe this was caused by the extra strain they are currently under from the weight of the pier.” The councils have stated that implementing temporary measures to allow a partial reopening of the pier by late November will require more effort than initially projected. They anticipate receiving an update from their engineers next week but have not specified if the partial reopening will be postponed. Provisional repairs are scheduled to commence during the upcoming tidal window, which begins on 14 November. The councils further explained that the work “is necessary so that our contactors can safely work underneath the pier to complete inspections of the structure and carry out the permanent repairs”. Certain businesses received only 12 hours’ advance notice regarding the pier’s closure. Adur & Worthing Councils report that they are now maintaining consistent communication with the impacted businesses. Their statement indicated: “We’re working with them to explore possible ways that we can support them while the work on the pier continues.” In related news, the Worthing Lions’ annual pier firework display has been called off, marking its first cancellation in 25 years.