hi Boscombe pier is open again for public access having undergone a £2.4m restoration.

In 1991, the end of the pier became structurally unsafe and was closed to the public. In October 2005, the remainder of the pier was closed and the future of the pier was dicussed.

The pier now features an 18m² viewing platform, new decking, handrails, lighting and windbreak. All work has been funded as part of the Boscombe Spa Village regeneration scheme, which includes Europe’s first artificial surf reef, the refurbishment of the Overstrand building and extensive landscaping of Boscombe Pier approach. Funding has come from the sale of overspill car parking to Barratt Homes for the construction of the Honeycombe Beach housing development.

Some further work has still to be done, including:

• A historical display along the side of the central windbreak
• public bench seating
• a compass rose display showing highlighted points of interest.

The grade II listed entrance building facilities will open in time for 1st April 2009.

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