The first steps are being taken to repair an historic pier which collapsed into the River Medway just weeks after funding had been earmarked to restore it to its former glory.

The broken portion of Rochester Pier, known as the brow, has been half submerged in the muddy bank since it came apart in May last year.

By removing it from the river, it paves the way for the long-term project to make the pier safe and return it to public use.

Volunteers from the Friends of Rochester Churchfields and Esplanade (FoRCE) have taken an active interest in the structure and had been taking steps to secure its future.

But inspectors declared it unsafe and Medway Council, which is responsible for its maintenance, closed it in 2019.

As it fell into disrepair, it finally broke under the strain of an early morning tide change and has looked a sorry sight on the Esplanade ever since.

"We are excited that continued efforts by local councillors and conservation groups are now gaining traction, leading to this important initial move towards fully restoring the pier to use..."

Members of FoRCE said at the time they hoped the collapse would galvanise people into action to get it back in use as a working pier.

Kristian Hansen, FoRCE's committee member for the river, said: "Discussions with our Friends and members since the incident have highlighted general dismay at the deterioration of the pontoon and the collapse of the brow, particularly over the resulting indefinite closure of the fixed pier.

"As a prominent part of the Esplanade Gardens, the rejuvenation of the fixed section and its reopening to the public is a significant element of our plan for their maintenance and improvement.

"We are excited that continued efforts by local councillors and conservation groups are now gaining traction, leading to this important initial move towards fully restoring the pier to use.

“Once the removal has taken place, the fixed pier will be assessed and if, as we expect, it is deemed sound and safe for access, FoRCE will begin enacting our plan to assist with its renovation and reopening, working with our local partners and mobilising our volunteers to undertake cosmetic restoration and improvements.

"We look forward to releasing details of this strategy over the coming months as more information on the schedule for repairs is forthcoming.”

Anyone with thoughts on the restoration of the pier, or who would like to be involved in volunteer work, can contact FoRCE’s Mr Hansen, by emailing river@esplanadefriends.org.uk.

In recent years, the Edith May sailing barge has moored there during the summer, offering afternoon teas on board.

Jetstream boat tours has also run river trips from the pier, taking in Upnor Castle and Chatham Historic Dockyard. It currently uses Sun Pier in Chatham.