Final Gorey Pier plans soon to be revealed

Monday 08 July 2024

More details about the future plans for Gorey Pier are to be revealed at the end of this summer, Ports of Jersey has confirmed after islanders raised concerns about the ongoing closure of the landing stage.

Ports announced the stage's closure in October, citing “significant” structural deterioration which had also been found in the former terminal building at the end of the pier.

The northern end of the structure had already been closed since the end of 2022, after a structural report by Royal Engineers raised safety concerns.

Head of Maritime Operations and Deputy Harbour Master, Louise Stafford, later revealed that Ports intended to provide "suitable, future-proofed replacements" for the ageing structures.

She hinted at plans to create an area that offers "opportunities for new businesses or community groups", as well as providing for commercial vessel traffic operations.

In a recent post on X, one islander asked for an update on the plans, as well as highlighting the impact of the landing stage closure on the adjoining Thai restaurant's seating capacity.

Had a meal at Tuk Tuk the Thai restaurant at end of Gorey Pier on Friday. A huge part of port area now cordoned off as unsafe. So their table capacity down. When will this work be done @PortsofJersey and how was it allowed to get to this state?

— ANDY BROWN (@ANDYDB7) July 2, 2024

 Pictured: An islander raising concerns about the landing stage's closure having an impact on the adjoining Thai restaurant.

The landing stage has also been used for the Gorey Boat Blessing Service led by Reverend Jeff Wattley each year.

Mr Wattley explained that, since last year, the service was held on a different section of the pier.

However, he said the ongoing assessments represented a "glorious opportunity" for Ports to make improvements the old terminal building and surrounding area.

He added that anything to help bring the site "up to standard" was to be welcomed.

A Ports spokesperson said: "After closing the landing stage in October 2023, ongoing assessments are prioritising the safety of our customers and the public."

Pictured: The landing stage had previously been used for the Gorey Boat Blessing Service which is now held on a different section of the pier.

The spokesperson continued: "Once these assessments conclude, we’ll inform stakeholders and the wider Island community about the future plans for the pier."

They added: "We anticipate being able to provide further details late summer 2024."