Long-awaited repairs to the badly-damaged Sun Pier in Chatham have been postponed because of the weather.

A barge was due to transport the ramp-ways and floating pontoons fro Chatham Docks to the pier on Thursday lunchtime. But the operation has been called off and will be re-scheduled as soon as conditions improve.

Medway Council has secured a loan from the government to pay for the work which will enable it to be once again used as a drop-off point for leisure craft and possible water taxis.

It will return Sun Pier to the status of the only publicly-owned usable landing place on the river.

It could also lead to boats making crossings between Chatham, Medway City Estate, Upnor and other points on the river for commuters, visitors and residents.

It is hoped the pier, which dates back to the 1860s, will be available for vessels by the end of November. The scheme aims to unlock development on Chatham waterfront and the multi-million pound regeneration of the town centre.

It has cost £143,000 and funded from a £3 million loan secured from the government’s Growing Places Fund.