Last major phase of harbour pier works complete

Mooring bollards have been installed at both ends of the pier

The "last significant phase" of £6.6m project to upgrade a pier to safely accommodate the newest Manx passenger ferry has been completed.

The improvement works in Douglas Harbour were needed after the Manxman joined the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's fleet last year.

The Department of Infrastructure (DOI) recently lifted two large fenders into position marking the last major step of the project at the King Edward VIII Pier.

Mooring bollards, one of which has a footbridge for access, have also been installed to allow the vessel to stay in the harbour during storms and high winds.

A space created for the project will stay in place until a walkway is replaced

Two towers, known as mono-piles, were also installed to support the new structures.

The fenders, which are 14ft (12.5m) tall, almost 10ft (3m) wide and weigh about 40 tonnes, have been designed to protect the ferry firm's vessels while they undertake manoeuvres in the harbour.

The DOI confirmed a temporary area created on the quayside to install the bollards would remain in place until a passenger walkway is replaced next year.

A representative said the contractor McLaughlin & Harvey would soon dismantle a large crane and other engineering equipment before leaving the site later this month.