By Molly Magennis
The popular Altona Pier will be demolished and replaced with a new, modern design with construction set to commence late this year.
Ports and freight minister Melissa Horne announced the new designs on May 16, which depict a pier with an angled, y-shaped head and a timber pier deck.
The original Altona pier was built in the late 1800s, with significant repair works carried out in the 1980s. The pier is showing signs of structural failure that may pose a risk to public safety, and since being damaged in a severe storm in June last year, has been partially closed.
A consultation process for the new pier was undertaken in mid-2020 on three concept designs, with more than 1,200 people providing feedback, 60 per cent of which choosing the option announced by Ms Horne.
The new pier design features lighting to ensure safe pedestrian access, an accessible lower landing providing connection to the water for swimming and recreational boating, a pier head junction that provides space for emergency vehicles to turn safely and space for fishing, boating and pedestrians.
Unlike the current pier, the new design will be aligned to Pier Street, providing an improved connection to the Altona foreshore.
The redevelopment is funded through the state government’s $24 million Piers and Jetties Stimulus Package, with construction of the new pier set to be completed in late 2023.
Ms Horne said the improvements are “integral in creating one of Melbourne west’s most vibrant and highly desirable public spaces”.
“We know Altona Pier is highly popular with anglers, which is why we are investing in this upgrade to ensure it can continue to be a drawcard for visitors from across Melbourne,” she said.
Altona MP Jill Hennessy said she was excited to see the community’s aspirations for the pier at the heart of the design.
“The new Altona Pier design will improve the experience for anglers and pedestrians while also making it safer for all users,” she said.
Locals can view the published designs at www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/melbourne-region/altona-pier-redevelopment.
