Felixstowe Pier’s site is now little more than a clear skeletal platform before work starts on the new building – as seen in this stunning picture from drone pilot Michael Hervey-Murray.

Ipswich Star: An artist's impression of the new Felixstowe PierAn artist's impression of the new Felixstowe Pier (Image: Archant)

The picture was taken in near-perfect conditions on Friday morning when Mr Hervey-Murray decided to put up his new drone after seeing progress at the pier.

He said: “I go along the prom most mornings with my dog and I had seen the work, as everyone can along there.

“But I’ve just got a new drone with a very good camera so I thought I would put it up and see what I got. To be honest I’m rather surprised how good it is with the skeleton to be seen.

“I’m really surprised by the picture – and I’m hoping to keep doing it to keep a record of how it changes.”

Work to demolish the pier started at the end of the summer season and heralds the start of a planned 36-week rebuilding programme, which is expected to cost about £3m.

Pier owner Stan Threadwell is hoping that the new pier will be open in June next year to catch the peak of the summer season.

The new pier will include a restaurant and retail outlets as well as traditional pier attractions.

The length of the pier over the sea will remain – although it will not be open to the public because of safety concerns – and the new building has been designed so it could be expanded in the future if the demand is there.