Community Update 1
Portsea Pier Maintenance Works

October 2022

As part of our management of piers and jetties we regularly conduct structural condition assessments both above and below the water. A recent engineering inspection at Portsea Pier identified the need for structural repairs to prolong the life of the pier. Importantly, following planning and local consultation, these works are now scheduled to start. This requires sections of the pier to be closed while works are in progress. 

Project timing

First constructed in the 1880s, and rebuilt several times, we know how popular Portsea Pier is to locals and visitors, so as much as possible we have scheduled works to minimise impacts. However, people should be prepared for a period of closure and disruption while we undertake these important works. The works began in the final week of September 2022 and are expected to continue until the end of November 2022.

What repairs will be done at Portsea Pier?

To prolong the usable life of the pier, contractors will conduct works to replace a failing fender, install specialised marine wraps to protect 14 of the pier’s deteriorated timber piles, and replace one pile which cannot be wrapped due to significant deterioration.

Image - Portsea Pier head

Access to the pier during works

The pier will be largely closed to the public when works are active, but on weekends, where safe to do so, the pier will be opened and available for fishing. Also as sections of the works are completed and it is safe to do so, we intend on a staged reopening of the pier.

Information has been in place on site and on the project section of Parks Victoria's website since August to communicate these works. Visitors are encouraged to continue to keep an eye on this information for updates. 

Alternate berthing, angling and pier walking opportunities are available at nearby piers such as Rosebud, Dromana, Mornington and Frankston. Please note that nearby Rye Pier is temporarily closed as part of the exciting redevelopment works.

Boating and non-powered vessels 

Our priority in the delivery of these works is the safety of the public, staff and contractors. During the works, vessels will be unable to berth at Portsea Pier. However, we have worked with the contractor to facilitate weekend access to the inner low landing to provide berthing opportunities for Licensed Tour Operators.

Swimming, snorkelling and diving 

During the works period, the area beneath the pier is unsafe for these activities due to construction hazards. You can enjoy similar experiences at Rosebud Pier and Frankston Pier.

Marine, heritage and coastal considerations  

Portsea Pier is home to significant marine life and is a popular dive destination. Parks Victoria commissioned a Marine Ecology Report to identify and mitigate the potential impact of works on the marine environment. The recommendations of the report have informed the contractor’s work methodology.

The heritage character of piers is an important part of Port Phillip, accordingly, we are committed to ensuring these values are preserved where possible. While Portsea Pier is not heritage listed, we have adopted an all-timber reconstruction approach for repairs to help retain the character of the pier.  

Project timeline

• Contract awarded – May  2022     
• Works begin – 26 September 2022
• Works completed – End of November 2022

For further information about the project visit the Portsea Pier project page.