Parks Victoria said the pier would reopen before Christmas, about six months behind schedule. Funding for the work was first promised by the state government in 2006.

The renovation includes a new 53-metre section in the middle of the pier, with more than 70 steel piles and a new timber deck, as well as a reinforced concrete platform.

Boats moored on the pier will be relocated to temporary moorings closer to the boat trailer parking area.

Parks Victoria suggests residents and visitors use piers at Frankston, Hastings and Dromana during the works.

The pier was badly damaged by storms in April last year and its poor condition has attracted criticism from anglers and yachties for some years.

A proposal for a $19 million, 197-berth marina in the harbour that is partly protected by the pier has been referred to an independent panel appointed by Planning Minister Justin Madden. The three-week panel hearing is scheduled for October or November.