Designed by Eugenius Birch as a promenade pier. Construction took 3 years, and it opened in April 1863 as a deck. Taken over by a new company in 1890, the addition of screens and pavilions were made. In November 1896 there was extensive damage caused by wreckage from the Chain Pier. The pavilion was converted to a theatre in 1903, and in 1945 to an amusement arcade. In 1965 the pier was taken over by AVP Industries who sought demolition of the South end. Refused, the pier closed on September 30, 1975.
Many schemes put forward for restoration, but the storms of December 2002 have dealt a terminal blow to the structure. The fire on the morning of March 28 2003 completley engulfed the southern end of the pier.Due to the location it was not possible to attempt to control the fire.
A second fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday May 11 2003, which continued to burn throughout the next day, destroying what was left of the pier and leaving only the framework.
On June 23 2004 high winds and heavy seas brought about the collapse of more of the frame.

Image Reference: 8.jpg

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