Hastings Online Times on the Pier

http://hastingsonlinetimes.co.uk/hot-topics/home-ground/pier-works-under-way
Starting in the New Year and working from the shore outwards, the deck will be made safe by replacing corroded steelwork and damaged decking. When this major job is completed by around September, it will be possible to bring in personnel and machinery to tackle the demolition of the ravaged ballroom at the end of the pier…………………..
But the support structure in general is in good condition, which considering that the Victorian pier is 140 years old, is testimony to the quality of the original workmanship, Mr Spooner said.
In light of the pier’s history, fire-resistant materials will be used for the rebuilding. The pavilion at the land end, the only part of the old pier that will be retained, will be rebuilt as a restaurant and bar. In the central area a new visitor centre will be built including a display area where the families and friends can come together for celebrations. Local contractors are being used for the restoration project and once the pier reopens, more than 50 new jobs are set to be created.
Members of the public will be able to follow progress of the reconstruction project at an information centre which HPC plans to open in January in the nearby sea-front building over the old swimming pool………………….