The fire that destroyed part of Eastbourne pier is being treated as suspicious, according to police.
Officers indicate that they believe the fire that left part of the 144-year-old structure scorched “may have been started by someone, either deliberately or accidentally”. They are asking anyone who recorded images or video footage taken at its entrance to come forward.
It was feared the pier would be completely destroyed as what was initially described as a small fire took hold on the Grade II*-listed Victorian attraction on Wednesday. But up to 80 firefighters were mobilised and managed to prevent that.
Along with RNLI lifeboat crews, they saved two-thirds of the pier.
Police are now investigating the cause of the fire. “A temporary scaffold platform has been erected adjacent to where the fire is thought to have broken out in order to enable scenes of crime officers and fire investigators safe access to the area,” said Detective Inspector Mark O’Brien, of Sussex Police.
Superintendent Laurence Taylor said: “The area around and under the pier is still very hazardous and there is a security team deployed to stop people putting themselves in danger.”
Watch Cordelia Lynch’s Channel 4 News report from Eastbourne as the pier fire took hold on Wednesday
Prime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne both visited the 1,000ft (305m) pier and spoke to community leaders in Eastbourne. There are concerns in the seaside town because the pier’s enforced closure comes at the height of the important summer tourist season.
Their visit coincided with the announcement by Downing Street that up to £2m will be given to help Eastbourne’s tourism industry recover from the loss of the attraction.
Mr Cameron said: “I know that the loss of one of Eastbourne’s most prominent and well-loved landmarks will have hit the town hard and I am determined to do all I can to help local businesses recover.”
He added: “Obviously, it’s a scene of some devastation, with the burnt and twisted metal, but what strikes you really very early on is really how much of the pier has been saved by the incredible bravery, professionalism and hard work of the firefighters and also the RNLI and the police who did a brilliant job in getting to the scene so quickly.
“Now what we need to do is make sure that Eastbourne doesn’t suffer from what has happened and that’s why we are giving £2m to the council so they can help the traders, help the businesses and make sure that everyone hears the message loud and clear that Eastbourne is open for business.
Mr Osborne said: “Eastbourne Pier is a much-loved local attraction and this fire is devastating news. I am therefore delighted to be able to provide financial support so we can minimise the effect on business and tourism.”