Community Update 1
Sorrento Pier Maintenance Works

12 October 2022

As part of our regular maintenance program on piers and jetties we regularly conduct structural condition assessments both above and below the water.  

A recent engineering inspection at Sorrento Pier identified a need for maintenance works to prolong the life of the pier. Importantly, following planning and local consultation, these works are now scheduled to start on 17 October. The works will require sections of the pier to be closed while in progress, however the public will still be able to walk and fish on the pier head.  

Project timing

First constructed in the 1870s and rebuilt several times, we know how popular Sorrento Pier is to locals and visitors. We have worked to schedule works to minimise impacts as a priority, however, people should be prepared for a period of disruption while we undertake these important works.  

The works will begin on 17 October and are expected to run until early December 2022. 

• Contract awarded – May  2022     
• Works begin – 17 October 2022
• Works completed – Early December 2022

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

What repairs will be done at Sorrento Pier?

To prolong the usable life of the pier, contractors will conduct works to prolong the usable life of the pier. On the pier head, one pile will be repaired, and a timber beam replaced. On the lower landing, works will deliver new steel ladders, new fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) decking and new timber fenders with rubber cushioning. 

Image - Berthing access at Sorrento Pier during works

Access to the pier during works

During works there will be partial public access to the pier and the pier head. For safety, fencing and signage is in place to communicate access restrictions to access.  Areas of the pier will be closed during works to allow the repairs to be done with minimal interruptions. This will allow us to reopen the pier as quickly as possible and reduce disruptions to the community and marine life.  

To minimise the impact to the community, a staged reopening is planned to allow access to the pier once parts of the works are complete and it's safe to do so. 

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 

The eastern low landing remains open to provide limited berthing opportunities for vessels while works are underway. This landing may need to close temporarily if safety concerns become apparent. 

The western low landing will be closed from 17 - 28 October. After this date, it will partially reopen.  We have worked with the contractor to provide alternative berthing opportunities for Licensed Tour Operators.  

Our priority in the delivery of these works is the safety of the public, staff and contractors. 

Fishing and walking

Pedestrian and fishing access to the pier head will be available during works, unless an unplanned closure is necessary for safety. Visitors are encouraged to follow on-site signage and visit the project page on the Parks Victoria website for updates. 

Alternative fishing and boating activities can be enjoyed at Mornington Pier, Frankston Pier, Dromana Pier and Rosebud Pier. 

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  

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