The Southampton Royal Pier is a historic landmark that has been a part of the city's history for almost two centuries. However, it is now in a state of disrepair, and there are concerns about its future. The pier has been closed to the public since 1979, and there are fears that it may not be able to be restored to its former glory.
History
The Southampton Royal Pier was opened in 1833 and was used as a landing stage for passenger ships. It played an important role in the city's history as a major port for transatlantic liners. After World War II, the pier continued to serve as a passenger terminal until it was closed in 1979 due to the decline in passenger shipping.
The gatehouse was reopened as a restaurant in 1986 but a fire on 4 May 1987 destroyed many of the structures on the pier and again in 1992. The restaurant reopened in 2008 serving Thai cuisine. The gatehouse is a Grade II listed building.
Current State
The pier has been closed to the public since 1979 due to safety concerns. The structure has deteriorated over the years, and there are concerns that it may collapse. The pier's decking is in a poor state, and the metalwork is rusted and corroded. The pier has been fenced off to prevent access, and there are warning signs in place to deter people from attempting to enter the area.
The Future
There are concerns about the future of the Southampton Royal Pier. The cost of restoration is estimated to be in the millions, and there are doubts about whether the necessary funds can be raised. There are also concerns about the viability of restoring such an old structure, and whether it is possible to make it safe for public use.
Despite these concerns, there are efforts underway to try to save the pier. The Friends of Southampton Royal Pier is a group of volunteers who are working to raise awareness of the pier's plight and to raise funds for its restoration. They are also working to highlight the pier's historical significance and to ensure that it is not forgotten.
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