Despite delays in construction the renovated Altona pier is expected to be finished by original date

Despite a five-month construction delays, Parks Victoria has promised an upgrade to an Altona landmark will be finished on time.

Despite a five-month delay in the start of construction, the Altona pier upgrade will be completed on a time, Parks Victoria says

On site works were initially planned to starting late 2022 but have been pushed back to May, with material procurement and preparation still underway.

The project is expected to be finished towards the end of the year.

“Project timelines often alter as we move through the stages towards the commencement of on ground works, and expected timings are best estimates which are subject to change,” a Parks Victoria spokesperson said

“On-site works will get underway in May 2023, and the project is now well underway with materials sourcing in progress. Beginning on-site in May 2023 means less disruption to both traders and the community.”

The first task in the renovation will be replacing the pier with a new 4.2m wide deck, with a 300m y-shaped pier head to span east-and-west into Port Phillip Bay.

It also includes multiple seating areas and “improved visual connections to the foreshore”.

Simpson Construction Co. was awarded the contract for the project in February.

The pier was built in the 1880s is a popular spot for fishing, exercise and recreation.

The project will cost $11.9m and is part of a $24m state government piers and jetties fund.