A LONG-AWAITED report on the condition of Helensburgh pier, and the scale of work needed to make it safe for the paddle steamer Waverley to visit the town again in 2019, is expected to be published in February.

The 147-year-old timber pier, owned and operated by Argyll and Bute Council, was temporarily closed to all marine traffic in October on advice by consultants Arch Henderson.

Their report, and the results of timber testing currently being carried out by specialist contractor Evova, will be used to carry out a structural analysis of the load-bearing capacity of the pier and to consider what, if any, repair work is needed.

The council has opened talks with the Waverley’s operators, Waverley Excursions Ltd, and the Helensburgh Seafront Development Project community group (HSDP) to help plan for the facility’s future.

Councillor Roddy McCuish, the authority’s policy lead for roads and amenity services, said: “While the technical work is carried out we are talking with those other groups with an interest in the pier.

“Officers have already met with Waverley Excursions to look at next year’s itinerary.

"The overall condition of the pier, and whether we can re-open the berth face, will be known before the timetable goes to print in late March.

“Obviously, the ability to allow the Waverley to berth next season will depend on the cost of any works required and the likely timescale for completing them.

“We are also liaising with HSDP to keep them up to date with what is going on.

“The council fully appreciates the economic potential that a fully operational pier could offer Helensburgh.

"The good news is that the original masonry pier is in good condition as is the outer facing of the rock armouring.”

Gerard Lindsay from HSDP confirmed: "The HSDP is liaising with Argyll and Bute Council on a way forward for Helensburgh pier."