Worthing Pier is moving a step closer to full restoration, with permanent repair work expected to begin in the coming months.
The popular seafront landmark was forced to close without warning in October 2024 after storm damage left several of its supporting piles unsafe, prompting an immediate safety shutdown.
A major programme of repairs is now planned for next summer and autumn, with funding of up to £900,000 set aside for the project. The council says carrying out the work during those months should provide better conditions, with calmer weather and more manageable tides helping contractors complete the repairs more quickly and cost effectively. Crucially, the plan is for the pier to remain open to the public while the work is under way.
Following the closure last year, officers worked at speed with specialist engineers to design and install a temporary steel support structure beneath the weakened section. The aim was to stabilise the pier and prevent further damage to the piles by relieving the weight of the deck. The temporary supports allowed the pier to safely reopen in December 2024.
The steel framework was designed to last around two years while a long-term solution was developed. Since then, council engineers have been working closely with contractors to determine the scale and method of the permanent fix. Detailed plans are now being finalised ahead of the start of full repair works next year.
Councillor Sophie Cox, the leader of Worthing Borough Council, said:
“There was a huge outpouring of support from the community for our urgent work to reopen the pier last year but we were always clear that the steel support was only a temporary fix.
“The permanent repair in 2026 will secure our fabulous pier for the years to come so that the tens of thousands of visitors who come to Worthing annually will be able to enjoy it.
“In the meantime we're investing in our seafront and town centre to make the area more attractive to visitors and residents.”
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