PLANS to remove the end platform of Great Yarmouth's run-down jetty have been delayed. The u-turn comes after Yarmouth Borough Council withdrew its planning application to remove decking, supporting steelwork and handrails in the hope of finding alternative methods to strengthen the structure.

PLANS to remove the end platform of Great Yarmouth's run-down jetty have been delayed.

The u-turn comes after Yarmouth Borough Council withdrew its planning application to remove decking, supporting steelwork and handrails in the hope of finding alternative methods to strengthen the structure.

A health and safety inspection carried out last year revealed the structure was unsafe and the popular fishing hub has been off limits since October 2008.

This week Tim Howard, head of regeneration at the borough council, said the council wanted to keep as much of the structure in use as possible and wanted to avoid works going on through the summer season.

He said engineers where examining other options for repair work within the council's budget, but added it was still possible the end platform would have to be removed, and in this case the council would have to apply for planning permission.

The future of the jetty will also depend of the granting of a large casino licence after the council put forward the Golden Mile development site for potential casino and leisure complex developers.

The site runs from the Marina Centre to the Winter Gardens and includes sections of the central beach and jetty.

The first jetty, built in Yarmouth in 1560 to provide landing stages for vessels using the port, was swept away by strong tides and one was rebuilt in the 1800s. Nelson reportedly landed there in the 1800s