Preservation work due to begin on visitor centre

27 January 2016

Next week Harwich Haven Authority (HHA) will begin work to replace the roof of the

Grade II listed building used by The Harwich Society as a Visitor Centre on Ha’penny Pier.

 One of the town’s main attractions, the Victorian pier houses the Harwich Visitor Centre, run by The Harwich Society. Built in the 1850s, the building is owned by Harwich Haven Authority who maintain the building as a valued community asset.

In recent years the building has suffered from a leaking roof. HHA has carried out minor repairs as required, but after an inspection to evaluate the extent of the problem it was decided a full repair of the roof was needed to maintain the building.

The Visitor Centre is of particular value to Harwich and the local community, encouraging tourism and making Ha’penny Pier one of Harwich’s most visited tourist attractions. During the repairs the building, which is already closed for the winter, will have scaffolding placed around it. The pier itself will remain open throughout and it is hoped the work will be completed by Easter.

Jim Warner, Assistant Harbour Engineer at HAA, said:

“The Authority is pleased to play a in part in maintaining one of the historic buildings of Harwich. By carrying out this essential work it means the Harwich Society will be able to continue encouraging tourism in the area.”