Whitegates Jetty and landing stage in Cowes is set for a significant overhaul in October.
The existing pontoon, walkway and handrails will be removed and replaced, as will a number of the timber beams.
The decking on the access bridge will also be replaced and the fixings will be modified to prevent grounding on the pontoon.
The works will be funded by the Isle of Wight Council and Cowes Harbour Commission. After completion, the council will transfer ownership to the harbour commission which will then be responsible for maintaining the infrastructure.
Berth holders are being contacted before work starts regarding alternative arrangements while the overhaul takes place.*
Leader of Isle of Wight Council, Lora Peacey-Wilcox Councillor said:
“This project shows the collaborative partnership we have with the Harbour Commission. We recognise that offering improved facilities to berth users has a positive knock-on effect on the local economy and we will continue to work with CHC for the benefit of both visitors, the businesses and residents of Cowes and East Cowes that use on the pontoon; and I can confirm permanent public access will be maintained after the works are completed ”.
Cowes Harbour Commission CEO, Gary Hall said:
“For a long time Whitegates pontoon has sat in the middle of the Commission’s area of responsibility, so it makes sense for us to take on the future management and maintenance of the pontoon. I am also pleased that by working in collaboration with the Isle of Wight Council, the jointly funded refurbishment of the pontoon will enhance its appearance and improve safety for everyone that uses this publicly accessible pontoon in a key part of Cowes.”
*Mooring holders will be offered a berth at Shepards Marina whilst the refurbishment work takes place
Not another improvement like the floating bridge I hope
So the tax payer helps fund this project only for the harbour commission to take responsibility for something new that shouldn’t need any major expenditure in the next several years. Yet another good deal done by IOW Council not.