REFURBISHMENT works that will close Rathmullan pier for eight months could begin as soon as March.
A tender document has just been published looking for a contractor to take on the overhaul of the busy marine infrastructure.
It is nine months since Minister for Agriculture and the Marine Charlie McConalogue allocated €3.5 million to the revamp.
Concerns have been raised for years about the disintegrating state of the pier which is used by multiple stakeholders including the Lough Swilly ferry, pleasure cruises, fishing crews and local sailing enthusiasts.
The large scale refurbishment scheme will see structural repairs carried out to defective concrete while the existing deck and primary beams will be removed and disposed of.
New precast beams will be installed while the existing crash barriers and rails on the pier-head will be replaced.
The existing concrete handrails and lamp posts will go, to be replaced with galvanised steel rails and pillars.
Defective ladders will be replaced with new stainless steel ones while a new steel kiosk will be put in place.
The tender documents says a start date of March is anticipated for the work and that the contract will run for eight months.
But the Donegal News understands that locals have not been briefed on the plans since last year.
One individual, who asked not to be named, said that if the works rumble through the summer months, they could have a hugely negative impact on the local economy.
“It would be a concern if we get to April or May because a lot of people come in on boats and yachts from the likes of Fahan. Some of them buy season tickets because they here every week and they use the local bars and restaurants.
“Businesses like those do a lot of trade as a result of the pier and the people who use it.”
A spokesperson for Donegal County Council said the refurbishment works are proposed to be carried out later this year and will result in temporary closure of the pier.
“The works proposed include refurbishment of the access viaduct and replacement of the deck slab and support beams.
“It is expected these works will take eight months to complete and there will be no access to the pier for the duration of these works.”
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