Speculation emerged this week the condition of the pier may lead to its closure – with work to repair storm damage from last winter yet to be carried out.

However, a spokesman for Argyll and Bute Council said there are ‘no plans’ to close the pier to the public.

The Helensburgh Seafront Development Project has voiced concern over the long-term future of the pier, fearing impending council budget cuts would leave no money for necessary repairs.

A spokesman for the group said it fears that without ‘substantial’ work, further storm damage this winter would mean the pier would have to be closed to the public.

The spokesman said: “Due to the increasingly poor and in areas dangerous condition of Helensburgh pier, coupled with the realisation Argyll and Bute Council must make budget cuts of more than £19 million in the next two years, we are worried they may not have the significant funds required to safeguard its future.

“Whilst the council currently has no immediate intention to close the pier who knows what the future holds without investment?

“We fear if storms damage the pier further this winter the council may decide they have no other option than to close it to the public.” However, the council spokesman stressed there was a fund in place for repairs to piers and harbours throughout Argyll and Bute.

Councillor Ellen Morton, policy lead for Roads, Infrastructure, Amenity Services and Special Projects, said a survey was being carried out to assess the damage to the pier.

She told the Advertiser: “There are definitively no plans to close the pier. It was damaged, and the pier needs work on it. A survey is being carried out by a contractor on behalf of the council to assess the condition.

“As far as I’m aware it is routine health and safety.” Earlier this week, the council provided an update about Dunoon Pier which is currently being refurbished, with £2.83 million being spent on the project.

The pier in Dunoon is being structurally repaired, and buildings surrounding the pier will also be improved through the works.

The works to restore the pier buildings are being co-funded by the Scottish Government through its Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, with £300,000 awarded in 2014/2015 and a further £50,000 has been awarded for 2015/2016.

Meanwhile, an HSDP meeting will be held next Wednesday, October 7, in the Tower for those interested in hearing plans for the development of Helensburgh’s seafront.

The event starts at 6.45pm, is free to attend, and is open to all.