Repair works have been announced for Port Phillip’s most highly utilised pier, Gem Pier.
In a statement, the Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne said the $650,000 program of works was scheduled to begin this week and would see piles beneath the pier repaired and replaced.
“The works are expected to take approximately eight weeks, subject to weather conditions,” Ms Horne said.
“Divers have already carried out the first stage of the project, repairing several piles by wrapping them with marine grade material to strengthen and protect them from the coastal environment,” she said.
“This second stage will see a barge remove and replace piles from the east side of the pier.”
Ms Horne said the pier was closed to the public with fencing and signage in place but the lower landing would continue to service commercial ferries in operation between Williamstown, the city and St Kilda.
“The funding for this project is being provided through the Better Recreational Facilities initiative,” she said.
“This work is part of our plan to improve port assets and boating facilities across Port Phillip and Western Port.”
She said contractors would follow advice from the Chief Health Officer to ensure they could safely continue important works during the coronavirus outbreak while protecting workers and the community.
