Amber Rudd held a summit, re The Pier, over the weekend

https://www.amberrudd.co.uk/news/mp-holds-summit-discuss-hastings-pier

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Amber Rudd MP said: “This was a productive meeting ............

“It has come to my attention only recently that there will be a delay to the owner’s planning applications due to Hastings Borough Council owning two pieces of land by the pier. I hope that the planning department will recognise the urgency behind this process and engage positively with the owner.” [hmm?]

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Cllr Peter Chowney said: “........  I remain concerned however about the lack of clarity in both short and longer term plans for the pier, and its relationship with the Friends of Hastings Pier, the council, and the wider public.........

Mr Gulzar said "....... Naturally we wish to reopen the pier as quickly as possible and look forward to working with stakeholders to achieve this objective. "

Steve Wilkins commented: “Our pier ....... was resurrected through a huge amount of local community time and effort .......... By working with the community, Mr Gulzar could gain trust from residents and in turn, their support.....”

Rachel McCarthy from Friends of Hastings Pier said: “Friends of Hastings Pier played a key role in the restoration of Hastings Pier and remain open to any constructive engagement that means the community can be confident that it is well cared for and the people of Hastings benefit from the pier they worked so hard to rebuild.

“........... the Pier’s owner met community representatives... and heard their concerns and questions regarding the Pier closure, insurance cover and future plans..........”