The future of Dover’s Prince of Wales Piers has been sealed – it will close for good after plans to remove historic furniture were granted last night.

The decision, made at a meeting of the district’s planners, was part of the wider scheme to improve the port’s Western Docks by creating a £120m cargo terminal and create 600 jobs.

It comes after Dover Town Council, which was consulted on the prospect, dropped opposition to the plans, submitting a “neutral” response.

Although some had previously lamented the loss of the access to the pier, the main issue councillors had to consider was the possible harm that could be caused by stripping the Grade II Listed pier of its historic railings, lamp posts, memorials and mooring bollards (cleats) to allow for changes to the pier.

But because of guidance from the Secretary of State on the Harbour Revision order – the maritime version of planning consent - the committee decided that the possible harm would be out-weighed by the wider public benefits that the Western Docks Revival Project brings.

The plans state that the furniture will be removed and stored safely while works to the pier are carried out. The historical items will then be given new homes in the Marina. But before granting permission, some councillors wanted answers about when the furniture will be relocated.

Conditions of the planning permission require a timescale to be supplied by the developers, outlining when the furniture will be relocated. A precise inventory is also required before work begins early next year.