Deal Pier re-opens to the public on Saturday.

It follows the completion of works to install over 300 metres of gas main to the town's most iconic landmark.

Problems with the pier’s gas supply were discovered during enabling work prior to the refurbishment of the café. It resulted in the unexpected closure which has lasted more than a month.

A spokesman for Dover District Council, said: "An announcement concerning the new café operator will be made once contractual arrangements have been completed."

During the pier’s closure, works were also undertaken to complete the resurfacing, repair and replace sections of railing, complete a major overhaul of the pumped drainage system, and paint the railings and entrance gates.

Contracts for the final phase of the revamp of Deal Pier have been awarded, and include the installation of new seating and repairs to the lower deck which is a popular fishing venue. It followed complaints from the public over the shabby state of the benches. This was last year in what was the stature's 60th anniversary year.

Cllr Trevor Bartlett, Cabinet Member for Corporate Property, said: “We’d like to thank everyone for bearing with us whilst we completed these urgent works to the pier’s gas supply.

“We’re delighted to be re-opening the pier this weekend and look forward to sharing some exciting news soon about the new café operator.”