WORK could start next month on rebuilding Watchet harbour’s dilapidated East Quay wall in order to make the area fit for further development, the Free Press learned this week.

The 150-year-old wall, which is part of Watchet marina, has been subject to weeks of safety tests.

It is only metres away from the site of the proposed £7 million East Quay flagship development masterminded by the Onion Collective, on which work is scheduled to start in autumn.

Following repeated concerns over the state of the structure and its load-bearing capabilities, the new Somerset West and Taunton council has asked for quotes for the major repair of the wall or even design-and-build plans for a completely new structure.

These are scheduled to be with the council by the end of the month. Construction could begin as early as June and the hope is to complete the work by October.

A figure of up to £3 million for a major rebuild was being mentioned in reports of discussions but could not be confirmed by the time we went to press.

Watchet Boat Owners’ Association this week welcomed the decision to carry out major work on the harbour wall.

A spokesman said: “For many years, heavy vehicles have been routed away from the edge of the dock due to a history of structural failure.

“The wall has a history of collapse on at least two occasions. We are pleased that the council is now taking action to protect the significant community assets of the marina and the quay.”

Nearly 40 boat-owners whose vessels are ashore in Watchet Harbour Marina’s boatyard on the site were this week told that at least 20 boats will have to be removed to allow the work to begin.

Owners of larger boats have been asked to have them ready for removal or launching into the marina by the middle of May.

For the full report, buy today’s Free Press (May 3)