New £3m pier for Walls approved by planning board

The building of a new £3 million pier, breakwater and ferry terminal at Walls got the go-ahead today.

At a meeting of the planning board, members approved plans to redevelop the pier area, with the construction of a new length of pier, a breakwater, and a ferry terminal and waiting room for people travelling to Foula.

The pier, which dates back 100 years, has long been in need of renovation. The first plans were developed around seven years ago, when an independent survey confirmed that the existing pier was failing.

A follow up survey warned that deterioration of the top of the pier was continuing and that a load restriction may have to be put on to the structure within a year to 18 months, meaning it would be open to pedestrians only.

Marine site investigations began last year and funding has been secured from the council’s capital programme as well as from underspend from the Uyeasound pier. The estimated cost of construction is £3,350,000.

As the councillor for the West Side, Frank Robertson declared an interest and the item was chaired by councillor Iris Hawkins.

Councillor Cecil Smith raised concerns about the provision of facilities for transporting livestock, and also asked for clarification as to exactly which days construction would not be carried out.

Although no definitive answers could be given, Mr Smith moved that the proposal should go ahead. He was seconded by Caroline Miller.