Bespoke Tension System Bracing Components For Southend Pier Restoration

The iconic Southend Pier in the UK, recognised as the world's longest pleasure pier, is undergoing an essential restoration program to ensure its preservation for future generations.

This significant project involves a multi-million-pound investment from Southend City Council and requires not only structural expertise but also a British supply chain capable of delivering specialised, high-quality engineering components.

Digital illustration of the anchor bay tension bracing systems used on many pier designs all over the world.

Brooks Forgings Ltd has been engaged with several engineering firms to manufacture and supply specialised bracing tension system components for the pier's main structural support frames, also known as anchor bays, which are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the Grade II listed Victorian pier.

Components include fully bespoke forged one-piece eye rods, clevis ends, cross-bracing, tension rings, and pile bracketry.

These components, including bespoke forged one-piece eye rods, clevis ends, cross bracing, tension rings, bracketry, and various fittings, are designed to provide vital rigidity while allowing the structure to accommodate the expansion and contraction caused by the harsh marine environment.

Bespoke forged tensioning eye rods were produced in M36, from S355 material in varying lengths up to 2400mm.

Bespoke heavy-duty forged clevis ends were produced from 70mm diameter S355 material. The eyes measure 140mm OD.

A total of 50 heavy-duty forged clevis ends were produced, with M36 internal thread.

The need for custom parts arises from the pier's age and historical significance, necessitating components that honour the original Victorian engineering, design, and appearance while benefiting from modern materials science and manufacturing techniques.

Each pier anchor bay uses multiple cross-brace tensioning system sets with bespoke fixing bracketry mounted to the piles.

All components are supplied galvanised with 2 coats of Interzone® 954 Black Epoxy.

All components supplied to the project are galvanised, t-washed, and then coated with two layers of Interzone® 954 epoxy, which is primarily designed for use in offshore splash zones and immersed conditions.

Brooks Forgings is eager to assist engineers with the supply and manufacture of tensioning system components for any pier restoration project. Please reach out to us with any questions or requirements.