Refurbishment work planned for Fenella Footbridge in Peel

It could be closed for up to four weeks

The Department of Infrastructure has announced plans to carry out major refurbishment work on Fenella Footbridge in Peel later this year, with work scheduled to begin on Monday 8 September - immediately after the end of the school summer holidays.

The bridge, which links East and West Quays at the head of Peel Harbour, is now around 20 years old. 

The planned maintenance is designed to ensure the footbridge remains safe and functional for years to come.

As part of the project, the bridge's hydraulic systems will be overhauled, and the structure will receive a fresh coat of paint. 

To carry out this work, the entire superstructure of the bridge will be lifted out of the harbour and temporarily relocated to the stone pier behind the seafood bar at Weatherglass Corner.

The bridge will be out of service for up to four weeks, depending on prevailing weather conditions. 

The DOI says the timing has been carefully chosen to avoid the busy summer season while also steering clear of winter months, when adverse weather could cause significant delays.

Despite the closure of the bridge, access for vessels to and from the inner harbour will be maintained throughout the works, as the flap gate located beneath the bridge will not be affected.

The Seafood Bar at Weatherglass Corner will remain open as usual during the refurbishment period.

However, public parking on the stone pier opposite Weatherglass Corner will not be available for the duration of the works and at times, pedestrian access to the pier may also be restricted on safety grounds.

The Department is thanking the public in advance for their patience and understanding during the works, which are considered essential to preserving this key pedestrian link in Peel Harbour.

More updates on the project will be provided closer to the start date.