23 Mar 2012
Hastings Borough Council has launched action to regain control of a fire-ravaged Victorian pier.
The council has handed a notice outlining its intentions to Ravenclaw Investments, which owns Hastings Pier.
The firm has reportedly failed to respond to a number of requests from the council regarding the restoration of the structure, which was all-but destroyed in a fire in 2010.
The Grade II-listed structure has been closed for the past six years, however the council wants to see it returned to its former glory as soon as possible.
Councillor Peter Chowney, lead member for regeneration, has issued a compulsory purchase order (CPO) to regain control of the pier.
The move comes after the Heritage Lottery Fund confirmed an £8.5 million grant for the council to renovate the fire-damaged structure.
Councillors have got together with the Hastings Pier and White Rock Trust as part of efforts to help ensure the project goes ahead.
Copyright Press Association 2012