Plans to reinstate the popular Riverside Park pontoon have been delayed after further repairs were identified when it was removed from the water for restoration.
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As reported, the structure was finally craned out of the water on April 14 after being out of action for around 27 months.
The pontoon about to be lifted out of the river on April 14, 2025
At the time, renovations were estimated to take around six weeks once on dry land.
The main section of the pontoon is currently fenced off in the park, close to its usual position in the water.
The pontoon currently 'parked' in the park
Now the council has said that more repairs have been identified that “were not possible to assess while the pontoon was still in the water”.
“To address these, multiple parts and fixings are currently being procured to ensure a thorough restoration,” said Cllr John Savage (left), cabinet member for green city and net zero.
“Meanwhile, the new connecting bridge is in the fabrication stage. Once completed, it will undergo hot dip galvanising - a crucial process that will enhance its durability and extend its service life.
“Due to the bespoke elements involved in this project, some components have required longer lead times than initially anticipated. We appreciate the patience and understanding of the community during this extended timeline and I know people are keen to enjoy the pontoon with the arrival of the warm weather.
Removed from the river for repairs
“Once all replacement parts are ready, the pontoon will be carefully reinstalled in the water, ready for everyone to enjoy once again. In the meantime, we are working with various community groups and Southern Water to ensure our water-side spaces are safe for all to enjoy this summer.”
In addition, it’s understood that Southern Water is interested in installing a water monitoring station on the pontoon once it is returned to service, adding a new function to the popular structure.
Meanwhile, campaigners have utilised the Heras fencing around the parked pontoon to question the environmental suitability of polystyrene-based floats – a material widely used on private and commercial pontoons.
Posters on polystyrene floats