The West Pier is a very sad story in the annals of heritage in the UK.

Ther UK's only pier to be listed as grade I status was built in 1863-66 to the design of Eugenius Birch, embellished by the Victorians and Edwardians with magnificent concert and entertainment halls. Sectioned off for security reasons in World war II, it nevertheless survived the war to become a victim instead of the general post-War decline of the British seaside resort. Closed as a dangerous structure in 1975, repeated efforts to restore it were thwarted by delays, arguments and red tape.

Salvation seemed at hand when, at last, the West Pier Trust had raised sufficient funds and had attracted successful lottery grants. Planning permission for its restoration had only just been secured when it succumbed in 2002 to a violent storm which damaged part of the concert hall deck, followed by two very suspicious and well-organised arson attacks in 2003.

Plans are still continuing to restore the Pier, through developing a new tower attraction on the landward side. Best of luck to them. In the meantime, the twisted wreckage is testimony to a national heritage disgrace.