A historic pier was transformed through sensitive marine engineering, creating a safe, accessible walkway that preserves heritage while serving modern transport needs.
A historic pier was transformed through sensitive marine engineering, creating a safe, accessible walkway that preserves heritage while serving modern transport needs.
Ryde Pier on the Isle of Wight, the UK’s oldest seaside pier, required a new pedestrian walkway to replace the redundant 19th-century tramway. The project was part of Wightlink’s long-term transport strategy and aligned with Transforming Cities Fund improvements. AWA were appointed as project manager and consulting engineers, delivering structural and marine design that respected the pier’s Grade II listed status while ensuring durability in a harsh coastal environment.
AWA led assessment of the original cast-iron screw piles and steel grillage, many showing corrosion. We designed strengthening measures, replacing pile heads and replicating original patterns to maintain historic character. The steelwork superstructure was developed to carry pedestrian and cycle loads while minimising additional weight on heritage foundations. Galvanised nuts and bolts were hand-painted black to match the original aesthetic. Working within tidal constraints, AWA coordinated safe construction sequencing for contractors on a live marine site, including work in tidal zones and variable weather.
The walkway now provides an accessible link between Ryde Esplanade Station and the pierhead. Shelters and seating offer views across the Solent, while the structure secures the pier’s long-term preservation. AWA’s role demonstrates expertise in complex marine refurbishment, combining engineering precision with sensitivity to heritage and community benefit.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
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