Upgraded Pier Status Could Mean New Casino For Eastbourne

Casino could on the way in Eastbourne after Victorian pier gets new listing.

A new gambling venue could be built on Eastbourne pier after the landmark's historic status was enhanced.

English Heritage has decided to upgrade the Victorian structure's listing from Grade II to Grade II*, meaning that the owners could decide to press on with plans for renovations, the Bexhill Observer reports.

According to the newspaper, a new casino and a monorail system have been mentioned as possible ways of updating the pier for contemporary pleasure-seekers.

Barbara Follett MP said that pier's new status would "help to breathe new life into this Victorian masterpiece and will allow many more generations to enjoy the access that it gives to the sea".

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Eastbourne Borough Council told the newspaper that the pier is "a great attraction for visitors to Eastbourne and a landmark for the resort".

Designed by distinguished engineer Eugenius Birch, Eastbourne pier opened in June 1870 and was badly damaged by a violent storm in 1877.