WORK has started on the final stage of reconstructing Rye pier, with contractors renewing and upgrading the outer structure.
The $3.95 million project began in 2022 with the renewal of the pier approach.
The second and final phase includes a wider timber deck, solar lighting and safety handrails.
The pier’s low landing will be extended to provide extra berthing space.
The pier will be closed on weekdays and the first 300 metres opened on some weekends for walking, fishing and sightseeing.
Boats will need to berth in an alternative location as the low landing will be unavailable until later this year.
An exclusion zone has also been declared around the pier to prevent diving, swimming and snorkelling.
Instead of being removed, wooden piles will be cut beneath the low tide mark and left in place to continue to provide habitat for marine life, including seaweed, sponges, tube worms and molluscs.
As part of the reconstruction, Parks Victoria is planning a sign trail to show what happens under the pier.
“Rye Pier is an important part of the Mornington Peninsula foreshore; we’re pleased to be rebuilding the pier in keeping with its original character but with upgrades to meet current visitor demand,” Jodi Heath, Parks Victoria acting regional director southern and maritime, said.
“The new wider timber deck and sustainable solar lights, and extra low landing space mean the pier is now safer and better equipped to welcome more of the community.”
Details: parks.vic.gov.au/projects/melbourne-region/rye-pier-approach-reconstruction
First published in the Mornington News – 6th June 2023
