In pics: Fire-ravaged Hastings pier re-opens

The restoration and revamp of Hastings’ pier, a Victorian landmark almost completely destroyed in a fire in 2010, has been completed.

The £14.2m project was intended not only to save the pier but create a usable space for locals and visitors alike.

Designed by dRMM Architects, the 272m long pier now features a refurbished pavilion and a visitor centre constructed from cross-laminated timber, as well as a pavilion bar and restauraunt, vintage funfair rides, a pop-up Hastings Pier shop, rickshaw rides and a selection of retail kiosks.

Built in 1872, the pier was closed in 2008 and ravaged by fire in 2010.

Winning the Heritage Lottery funding in 2012, the restoration of the grade-II listed pier received £11.4m towards the £14.2m job.

Ramboll provided the structural engineering for the repairs to the pier and the design of a new Visitor Centre.

Jackie Heath, Project Associate at Ramboll, says: “The pier had been subject to an aggressive marine environment, fire, storms, decay, ownership difficulties and much neglect. It presented a significant challenge, not just in saving the Victorian structure, but in recreating a public space that was flexible and sustainable.

“The conservation principle taken for the remaining pier structure was one of minimal intervention – only replacing elements that had failed. The challenge of surveying such a large unstable structure in a marine location that is difficult to access was aided through the use of laser scanning, which enabled a detailed design and restoration plan to be drawn up.”

Hastings Pier is now open to visitors.