Watch: Moment part of Brighton’s historic West Pier collapses

Watch: Moment part of Brighton’s historic West Pier collapses

During the recent stormy and wet weather brought on by Storm Austen, a portion of Brighton’s historic West Pier gave way and collapsed into the sea. Dramatic footage captured by the BBC shows one side of the iconic structure in East Sussex being engulfed by powerful waves as it collapses into the water.

Originally opened in 1866, the pier was once a major attraction, drawing in around two million visitors at the height of its popularity. However, after World War Two, its appeal waned. The pier was officially closed to the public in 1975, but despite its deteriorating condition, it has remained an enduring symbol of Brighton for many.

In late 2002, severe storms caused significant sections of the pier to fall into the sea. The following year, two fires devastated much of the remaining structure. Over the years, additional storms have further weakened and damaged the pier’s iron framework, leading to its current state.

Although no longer accessible, the West Pier continues to hold historical and cultural significance for the city, even as nature and time steadily take their toll on the once grand landmark

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More