An arm of West Hoe pier is being fenced off as a safety measure ahead of repair work which is expected to start this summer.
Heras fencing is being erected at the shore end of the pier this week and signs put up to stop people from using the pier which has become unstable. It will remain out of bounds until the work has been completed.
This north east leg is used mainly by anglers and people simply enjoying the scene, but the pier on the other side of this tiny harbour – where Rusty Reg or Look II stands – will still be accessible.
The pier is a Grade II listed structure and was built in the 1880s. It has been subject to various repairs over the years, but its location means that it is subject to continuous wave action.
The Council has been monitoring its condition for some time and commissioned a survey to review next steps.
It has now received recommendations for the work, which will involve replacing various granite steps and blocks that have fallen away, refilling voids that have been created by the sea, repointing as well as replacing timber strakes.
We are currently finalising the detail and programme of the work with a specialist marine engineering company.
The pier in question is NOT the one which is home to Rusty Reg or Look II as it is formally known. Work was carried out in 2020 ahead of the installation of the figure.
We have also taken the precaution of fencing off the statue of Lady Nancy Astor on the Hoe following reports of instability from a concerned member of the public.
Further site investigations have confirmed that some adjustments need to be made.
As a courtesy, we have contacted the sculptor and the fundraiser to agree any necessary changes and once these have been agreed, will make the necessary adjustments to the statue.
The statue was unveiled in November 2019 by the former Prime Minister Theresa May following a successful crowdfunding campaign, organised by Plymouth Women in Business Networking. It was installed by a third-party contractor.
Nancy Astor was the first female to take a seat in the House of Commons and served as an MP for the city of Plymouth for 26 years.
The statue is currently not accessible due to the Summer Sessions security measures.