Old Port pier to be decommissioned

THE old Portarlington Pier will be decommissioned to ensure public safety for visitors, commercial operators and vessels.

Recent inspections by specialist engineers have found the old pier is no longer safe for pedestrians, as elements of the ageing concrete and timber structure are breaking away from the steel reinforcements and are at risk of falling into the water.

The old pier, which has been closed since March 2018, is one of two adjacent piers in the harbour, providing access for pedestrians, boat owners, ferry passengers and commercial operators.

The new pier, which opened in July 2015, will continue to provide access for the public, commercial fishing, recreational vessels, passenger ferry services and other aquaculture related activity.

The harbour is an important commercial and recreational destination, and in February saw the completion of the $15 million Portarlington Safe Harbour investment designed to support the Bellarine Peninsula’s growing aquaculture industry and help boost tourism and the local economy.

For more information on the phone 13 19 63 or visit parks.vic.gov.au.