The new Bridport pier is one step closer to delivery with the preferred location, Croquet Lawn Beach (accessed via the Council’s caravan park), now agreed to by all parties.
Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, said that this decision is the result of extensive community consultation and specific site assessments.
“The consultation involved meetings with key stakeholders, a public drop-in session and an online/paper survey with over 400 submissions received,” he said. “We are very pleased that Croquet Lawn Beach is the preferred site with not only the community, but also with the Dorset Council, Bridport Pier Group and is supported by MAST.”
“MAST has received specific engineering advice on coastal processes bathymetry and wave climate for this site. It has also discussed the land-based infrastructure and access requirements, the distance from the town centre and the potential impact on traffic and residents with Dorset Council.
The delivery of the 126 metre public jetty will provide additional capacity for recreation and tourism vessels, providing a central focus for tourism and attraction in Bridport.
“We know locals and beachgoers have missed having a pier so the confirmation of the pier’s location will be welcome news to all of those in the community, and Bridport’s visitors, after their many years of passionate campaigning,” said Liberal MHA for Bass, Simon Wood.
“It’s a project close to my heart and it’s great to see the community supportive of the proposal we’ve put forward. For the people in the town, this pier has been a long time coming and I cannot wait to see this become a reality.”
Site assessments covering Aboriginal heritage, terrestrial flora and fauna, marine values and planning have all commenced and it is anticipated that a development application will be submitted in late 2024.
Approximately $4 million has been allocated for the approvals, design and construction of the new pier.
