Roker Pier is safe again for public access

Pier repairs began at the end of April with fine weather and moderate sea conditions helping contractors make good progress. Once repairs were complete in July, new life buoys and safety signage could be fitted.

The pier gates were unlocked for public access at 10am on Tuesday 12 August by Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Business, Councillor Kevin Johnston.

He said: "Very pleased to report that repairs are complete and, weather permitting, Roker Pier is now safe for the public to enjoy. It's been a complex marine civil engineering job that could realistically only have been completed outside of the winter months. We're all very proud of our pier and this has all been another chapter in its long history."

Large sections of the railings were washed away during October 2023 and serious damage was caused to the pier head where sections of the decking were broken up and destroyed by heavy seas. The main damage was to the northern and eastern sections as it took the brunt of the swell and waves that were thrown at it during the two days of Storm Babet. Altogether, more than 100 metres (300ft) of railings were ripped off or damaged in the storm.

As a grade II listed structure which was first opened to the public in 1903 after taking 18 years to build, the council had to consult closely with heritage authorities about repairs. It had also to be mindful that repairs could only realistically be completed during the summer months.

Planning approval for the £236,000 repair programme was granted in January this year. 

Cllr Johnston said: "Pleased to also announce that with full public access the pier tunnel tours are re-opening. These are very memorable and highly recommended to see, experience and understand how the tunnel has helped save many lives over the years."

The contractor for the repairs was North East-based Southbay Civil Engineering Limited. They previously worked on Roker Pier deck slab replacement works in 2014.

Southbay's Operations Director Antony Ballantyne said: "We are delighted to have been responsible for delivering a project that will ensure the public can safely access a structure of such regional importance. Through working closely with the council and our supply chain we have ensured the grade II listed pier has been restored in accordance with planning requirements, and can continue to be enjoyed for many more generations to come."

Public access to the pier will continue to be restricted in adverse weather conditions. This is in the interests of public safety.