AN IMPORTANT quay which dates back many centuries has been officially opened after a £300,000-plus restoration project.

Richard Smith

AN IMPORTANT quay which dates back many centuries has been officially opened after a £300,000-plus restoration project.

A survey in 2000 identified that Orford Quay, near Woodbridge, was in a serious condition.

The steel piling was affected by accelerated low water corrosion and villagers feared that the future of the landmark was in jeopardy if no action was taken.

But the huge cost of the project, more than £320,000, was a heavy burden for the small village.

However, there were more than 200 donations from private individuals and there was a very large donation from the Marine and Fisheries Agency.

Grants were also given by Adnams, the Alde and Ore Association, Aldeburgh Yacht Club, Sizewell power station, the Grocers' Charity, the Royal Harwich Yacht Club, Woodbridge Cruising Club, VT Communications, and the 29th May 1961 charitable trust.

It took up to 10 weeks to refurbish the quay and the renovations have used greenheart timber which has a lifespan of up to 100 years.

The quay is owned by the New Orford Town Trust and it was officially reopened on Saturday.

Alison Keeble, clerk to the trust, said: “The quay was in a serious condition and if it had had to be closed then we this would have had a huge impact on the village's tourist trade.

“It has been a huge project but the quay now looks nice and we have got all the money for the work.”

The opening ceremony was held after a crabbing competition, organised by Orford School League of Friends, took place in aid of Orford Primary School.

The quay dates from the 12th Century when Orford Castle was built by Henry II and Orford was an important trading port.