Major engineering project to begin on King Edward VIII Pier

Wed, 30 Aug 2023

A major engineering project will see alterations to King Edward VIII Pier in Douglas Harbour.

The Manx Government said the project is designed to protect critical marine infrastructure.

Work will see two new large steel piles installed around the end of the pier and modifying the fenders which prevent a vessel from colliding with the harbour wall.

The project is being undertaken by civil engineering specialists McLaughlin and Harvey, which manage construction projects across the British Isles.

Work will get under way from Saturday and is scheduled for completion in the new year.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, who is currently undertaking the role of Infrastructure Minister, said: ‘The arrival of the Manxman and its entry into service marks an exciting time in our modern maritime history. Existing facilities are able to accommodate the vessel under benign conditions but must be updated in order to protect Manxman and its berth from very high winds.

‘The boat’s greater size compared to the Ben-my-Chree has been noted by many since its arrival but its substantial weight difference is a critical factor in making these changes as we head into winter.’

He added: ‘Protecting and improving our national infrastructure is key to delivering the aims of Our Island Plan and this once-in-a-generation project will serve our community well for many years to come.’ 

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