DAMAGE TO Tighnabruaich Pier sustained during Storm Eowyn is causing concern that the structure may not be repaired in time for the spring and summer season Argyll and Bute Council closed off access to the pier last month, and its understood the Tighnabruaich Pier Association is now in discussions with the local authority to find a solution.
The pier is a crucial docking point for the Paddle Steamer Waverley, which is set to return to the waters
later this year.
A spokesperson for Argyll
and Bute Council confirmed that an assessment of the full extent of the damage is ongoing. They explained: “Storm Eowyn had widespread impact across Argyll and Bute and our teams remain very busy clearing up storm damage, assessing where Council infrastructure has been damaged, and prioritising repair works.
“We are investigating and assessing the damage done to Tighnabruiach Pier, and will be discussing all options available to us with the Pier Association.”
The closure of the pier has raised concerns among locals and businesses, that if essential repairs are not carried out swiftly, it could impact not just the Waverley’s operations but also the village’s economy, which relies heavily on summer visitors.
With no confirmed timeline for repairs or a date for reopening, the situation remains uncertain. The Tighnabruaich Pier Association, (TPA), is working closely with the council to explore potential solutions, but residents and business owners are eager for clarity on when repairs will begin and when the pier will be safe to use again.
Graham Hogg, chairman of the TPA said: “The Tighnabruaich Pier Association, which mans the pier on behalf of the Council when the Waverley calls, is clearly anxious to see repairs carried out to the damaged handrails before Waverley’s first call of the season on May 16. There is then a gap until the main season, which starts on June 28. The repairs are in the hands of the council and we have to rely on them to arrange for contractors to do the necessary work in time. We are liaising with the council and trying to keep Waverley Excursions informed, but at this stage, we have not been told when the repairs will take place.”
As Tighnabruaich prepares for the spring and summer months, many hope the council will prioritise repair work, ensuring that the historic pier remains operational and continues to serve both locals and visitors.
