A major £1m project to protect an iconic north Norfolk landmark is underway in Cromer.
North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) is spending a total of £1,000,000 to protect the future of the town's famous pier.
Councillors voted to approve the funding in September last year, and the first stage of the extensive work, costing £400,000, has begun underneath the wooden structure.
Hilary Cox, district councillor for Cromer Town ward, said NNDC was committed to maintaining the 'award-winning asset'.
The improvements include strengthening the pier's structural base, expected to be completed by early April, and the roof of the theatre, which will be finished in time for the first pier show of the year on Thursday, March 28.
The sewerage system below the decking between the theatre and lifeboat shed has been replaced and the fire alarm system, linked to the RNLI station, upgraded.
Decking between the forecourt and the booking office and Tides Restaurant has already been replaced as part of the council's ongoing maintenance programme.
Further deck replacement works in front of the bar and west of the theatre are set to take place during the current phase of works, while performers treading the boards in the theatre will be performing on new ones, with the stage floor set to be improved before the show season starts.
Mrs Cox, who is also the council's leisure portfolio holder said: 'These ongoing improvements to Cromer Pier show NNDC's commitment to sustaining the future of this iconic structure, economically benefitting the whole area for tourism and employment.
'Whether you enjoy the shows, catch crabs over the side or just take a gentle stroll around the pier, these significant upgrades will enhance any experience on this award winning asset.'
The second stage of the project will cost a further £600,000 and involve significant improvement works to protect the steel columns upholding the pier.
During autumn, contractors will replace some of the concrete encasements that protect the supports into the seabed, which will require support from divers and the use of underwater cameras, and protect the long-term future of the pier.
The initial work is being done by UK Industrial Services and Reeve Property Restoration. The council has a 10-year partnership with Openwide, which runs the pier.
READ MORE: 'Vital' Cromer Pier improvements to go ahead as cabinet approves £400,000 project
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