News reaches us that work to repair Ryde Pier should be completed by March 2011.
According to information released by Wightlink this afternoon, the company have secured funding of £3.5m for the first tranche of work needed in order to reopen the pier to both pedestrians and vehicles.
Although it hasn’t been nailed down completely (boom boom), it’s thought that subject to Heritage approval, weather conditions and availability of sustainable FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) approved material, the work should be finished and vehicles back on the pier by March 2011.
Temporary walkway being constructed
If you use the pier, you’ll have already seen work taking place to build a temporary walkway.
This will be for use by pedestrians whilst the pier is fully closed during the major works.
As readers will know, the pier is currently restricted to passenger access only, with cyclists also having to dismount.
On completion and opening of the temporary walkway cyclists and mobility scooters will be able to ride to the length of the pier
Train fare no longer free
Although Wightlink were covering the cost of passenger fares between Ryde Pier Head and Ryde Esplanade, this is no longer in operation and passengers will be required to pay the standard Island Line fare.
Season & Multilink ticket holders are permitted to travel between Ryde St Johns and Ryde Pier Head at no extra charge until further notice
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Image: Secret Pilgrim under CC BY-SA 2.0