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The Pier was designed and
engineered by Eugenius Birch to attract visitors and
survive in the hostile environment of the seashore.
Built in 1866, it was a simple and functional structure
built out from the sea using dozens of cast iron threaded
columns screwed into the seabed and strengthened by
a lattice of ties and girders that provide the necessary
strength to support the promenade deck whilst allowing
seas to pass harmlessly through.
Originally the West Pier had an
open deck with only six small ornamental houses of
oriental design, two toll houses and glass screens
at the pier head to protect visitors from the wind
and sun. In 1875 a central bandstand was added. In
the 1880's weather screens the full length of the
pier, steamer landing stages and a large pier head
pavilion were constructed.
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The final building,
completed in 1916, was a graceful concert hall.
The result is seaside architecture at its finest,
designed to attract and entertain holiday-makers
with all the pomp and frippery that is the essence
of the English seaside resort. The pier is unique
in being largely unaltered since that time, its
proportions and style are unrivaled and its concert
hall and theatre are two of the best surviving
Victorian and Edwardian seaside entertainment buildings. |
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Local tour guide, Jackie Marsh-Hobbs has generously offered to give free talks to groups on the history of the West Pier.
She has several dates (afternoons and evenings) available through the autumn and would only require her travel expenses to be paid and for the group to provide a space for the talk, a 35mm projector, a screen and a projector stand.
If you are interested in taking up this offer please call the office on 01273 321499 |
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