The clear-up operation is underway (Image: Clacton Pier)
A clear-up operation has begun at Clacton Pier in Essex after part of the structure collapsed into the sea during a concrete pour.
The collapse took place on Friday 14 February, with a small section of the outside deck for fairground rides falling into the sea.
It happened during structural refurbishment work to strengthen the existing concrete deck area, which is due to be home to a new ride, following the removal of another called Stella’s Revenge.
Contractors arrived on site within three hours and by 1030pm that evening, the section was made safe and around 50% of the rubble was collected.
The collapsed outside deck (Image: Clacton Pier)
Work resumed on Saturday at low tide to remove more debris from the seabed.
A statement from Clacton Pier said that it was only part of the outside deck that was affected and that the front indoor section of the pier remained open.
Speaking about the clear-up operation, director Billy Ball said: “This was important with Storm Dennis imminent and because as a business we wanted it to take place without delay.”
“Our structural engineers were very impressed with the progress that was made in such a short period of time, less than 24 hours.
“At this point we believe that a combination of the effects of last week’s tidal surge and the removal of Stella’s Revenge from that deck may have made that small section more vulnerable.
“Then when we started the work yesterday four bays of the existing concrete slabs failed, and the collapse took place.”
It is not yet known when repairs can be carried out.
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Stella has taken her revenge…
Be nice to know what actually caused the collapse and why it wasnt forseen that this could happen…luckily no one was hurt.
I wonder how strictly the Temporary Works we’re controlled?
The CITB Temporary Works Coordinator Training tells you that by rights, even heras panelled site boundaries should not be modified with signage etc without the consultation of a temporary works engineer due to changes in load caused by wind etc.
So many construction workers alter what is considered to be temporary works including formwork or shoring without even thinking of consulting an engineer for consideration of design calculations.
Well said Jonathan. In my role as PD I am constantly needing to remind Clients and Contractors of the importance of proper Temporary works arrangements. It often falls on deaf ears until I point out the implications and then the old “who will pay” mantra is trotted out.