Protecting Deal Pier for future generations - next phase of key works approved

A second phase of key works has been given the go ahead by Dover District Council's Cabinet as part of a major programme of investment to protect Deal Pier for future generations.

The next phase will include planning and design work, and a tendering process for the repairs, with concrete repairs to the pier legs set to take place in spring/summer 2026.

This follows a £140k programme of works to beams and steps on the lower deck in autumn/winter of 2024/25, which followed a full structural survey in 2024. 

Piers need continuous repairs and maintenance as they face the effects of the sea and the coastal weather all year round.

During spring 2025, a boat survey was carried out, which confirmed that while some of the protective concrete around the steel supports had come away, the pier’s primary steel structure was in fair to good condition given its age. Whilst this is now not considered an urgent matter, remedial works are advised to continue to protect the steel from marine corrosion under planned works.

Over the last decade, significant investment has been made on Deal Pier to improve and protect this popular local attraction.  Works have included a new surface on the stem, new timber seating, new windows for the shelters, main entrance improvement works, improved lighting and enhancements to the lower deck.

Cllr Lynne Wright, DDC Cabinet Member for Corporate Property, said: “We are very pleased to be able to continue these repair works.  Deal Pier is a popular attraction for both residents and visitors and is a key asset to the district, and it’s important that we continue to invest in it for the future.”

For more information, please see the report to Cabinet on the DDC website.

Notes:

In accordance with DDC’s Constitution, executive decisions made by Cabinet are subject to call-in by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The period for call-in expires four working days after the record of decision is published. Therefore, the information contained in this release may be subject to further review and changes and may not reflect the final decision.