A $3 million public pier has been approved for the north-east Tasmanian town of Bridport, almost a century after the original structure was destroyed by fire.
Dorset councillors unanimously backed the 140-metre jetty at a meeting on Monday night.
Councillor Wendy McLennan said the decision marked a “historic” turning point for the community after decades of effort.
“There have been numerous attempts since the original pier was burnt down in the 1930s to rebuild it,” she said.
“I just want to acknowledge the incredible tenacity of Billy Millwood and of Marg and Rob Perkins – unfortunately we’ve lost Rob – but over the last 20 years it should be noted that they never ever gave up.”
She said the pier had long been an aspiration for locals.
“The pier has been the icon or the feature of Bridport – every photo that you see is all of that old burnt down pier,” McLennan said.
“It’s always been a very dear wish to have a pier and we know what advantages a pier can do for the community, for attracting people, for having the access to the water.”
The pier will be built at Regatta View Point near Croquet Lawn Beach and will include a T-shaped pier head and a landing ramp for vessels.
Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) is leading the project on Crown land.
Four public submissions were received during consultation, with concerns raised about potential conflicts between swimmers and motorised watercraft at the nearby beach.
However, a planner told councillors those matters sat outside planning controls.
Construction must commence within two years or the permit will lapse.
