What is the West Pier Trust?

Here at the West Pier Trust we work to protect the cultural and historical heritage of Brighton’s seafront.

The iconic West Pier has been a key cultural landmark since it opened in 1866, with millions of visitors flocking to experience the thrill of walking over water and being entertained by world-class performances. Through a series of tragic events the pier has since fallen into disrepair and now stands as a derelict monument to times gone by. However, all is not lost!

What is West Pier Trust doing to support the biosphere?

The pier’s historical significance is inherently linked to the coastal landscape and the natural environment of the biosphere, and we are proud to be a lead partner in regenerating Brighton’s seafront – by protecting the heritage of the old pier and starting a new era of cultural significance. 

The British Airways i360 was an ambitious project from Marks Barfield Architects, co-developed with the Trust. It opened in 2016 and offers visitors thrilling 360-degree views of Brighton & Hove, the old West Pier and the South Downs National Park in a new ‘vertical’ pier. This project has been a great success and has kick-started a new era of regeneration on the seafront, with vibrant new independent businesses springing up in renovated arches.

The new West Pier Centre is just east of BAi360 and welcomes visitors and residents to explore the cultural and historical importance of the pier through information, exhibitions and talks. The octagonal West Pier kiosk was recovered from the pier in the 1990s. It’s the only surviving complete piece of the original West Pier structure and the oldest pier building in the world. It is a hub for new community projects that aim to improve the wellbeing of Brighton & Hove’s residents.