A prominent events, entertainment and lifestyle group that operates several venues on Docklands’ Central Pier in Melbourne has addressed the site’s indefinite closure due to safety concerns.
Last Wednesday, engineers advised Development Victoria that Central Pier was unsafe for use and required immediate closure, throwing business operators at the site into chaos.
Development Victoria spokesperson Geoff Ward said engineers have been inspecting the pier every two months since November 2018 and had previously provided certification that supported the ongoing occupation of the pier.
However, given the notice received from the engineers last Wednesday, Ward said there was “no alternative but to require the pier be vacated in order to preserve public safety”.
Atlantic Group has since spoken out about the decision to shut down Central Pier, with several of its venues having been affected by the closure including Woolshed, Mill & Bakery, Austage Events, Mama Rumaan, Alumbra, Peninsula, MAIÀ, Sumac, and Sketch.
At this stage, it is unknown when the pier will be reopened, according to the group.
“Our number one priority is the safety of our customers, our clients and our staff,” a statement by Atlantic Group read.
“We have been a proud part of the Docklands community since 2007 and we will continue to employ the 1,000 Atlantic Group staff who work on Central Pier as we work to resolve this issue.
“We are also committed to providing the very best experience for our customers and are assisting with the relocation of all events currently booked for Central Pier in the coming weeks.
Atlantic Group said all impacted clients will be accommodated and “every effort will be made to deliver an exceptional experience for you”.
“We will work with Development Victoria to understand exactly what has occurred and we will seek clarity on when we will be able to return to our venues on Central Pier,” the group said.
All other venues and businesses operated by Atlantic Group including The Atlantic, The Den, Fish & Chippery by The Atlantic, Gardens House, destination caterer Tommy Collins by Atlantic Group, major event catering preparations for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, and Port Melbourne Yacht Club will continue to operate as normal.
“We want to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their patience,” the statement said.
“We also appreciate the overwhelming support received from our suppliers and other venues during this period to assist us and our clients.”
Atlantic Group is encouraging anyone who has any concerns or queries to email info@atlanticgroup.com.au.
