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Archaeology Notes
Event ID 851314
Category Descriptive Accounts
Type Archaeology Notes
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/851314
For North Pier, Lighthouse (NJ 9639 0609), see NJ90NE 7.03.
For (associated) Abercromby Pier (NJ 95922 05708 to NJ c. 95894 05715 ), see NJ90NE 7.23.
For Marine Operations Centre (built 2006, at NJ c. 9608 0587), see NJ90NE 7.29.
For 'Scarty's Monument' (sewage ventilation shaft) at NJ 95926 05743, see NJ90NE 213.
The North Pier was constructed in three distinct stages as part of the major series of harbour improvements in the 18th and 19th centuries. The harbour was prone to silting so that only shallow-draught vessels could be allowed entry, larger vessels being required to lie in the 'Gawpuill' (which now forms the turning basin) at the inner end of the navigation channel.
The first major works were designed by John Smeaton and carried out in 1770-81. The extended pier was 1200ft [365.9m] long and cost £180. It reduced the entry of sand into the harbour area, and changed the angle of incoming waves at the harbour entrance.
The pier was further extended between 1810 and 1816 on the advice of Thomas Telford. This extension measured at least 900ft [274.4m] in length, and ended among a group of large rocks responsible for at least five shipwrecks.
The final phase of construction (between 1869 and 1874) extended the pier beyond these rocks into deeper water. It measured 500ft [152.3m] in length, bringing the total length to some 2600ft [792.7m].
Aberdeen City Council [2006].
