Josh Babarinde, MP for Eastbourne, shared the news in the House of Commons after launching his ‘Protect Our Pier’ campaign earlier this week, calling for government support to safeguard the future of Eastbourne Pier.
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions on June 17, Mr Babarinde said: “As an Eastbourne boy, born and bred, I can tell you that Eastbourne Pier is an iconic part of our heritage, an iconic part of our economy and an iconic part of me – I literally have Eastbourne Pier tattooed on me.
Babarinde with the tattoo (Image: Josh Babarinde)
“But on a serious note, local residents have become concerned for the pier’s future after a company linked to it has gone into liquidation and maintenance costs for piers across the country have gone sky high.
MP Josh Babarinde (Image: Josh Babarinde)
“Will the Deputy Prime Minister back my ‘Protect Our Pier’ campaign and meet me to discuss emergency measures to safeguard our pier for the future?”
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy responded by describing Eastbourne Pier as a “much-loved, iconic local landmark” and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to meeting with Mr Babarinde to discuss the issue further.
The campaign was launched after growing concerns about the pier’s future, following the liquidation of a company connected to its owners.
Mr Babarinde said: “Eastbourne Pier is a treasured part of our heritage, a vital contributor to our local economy and an iconic landmark recognised across the country.
“I am keen for the government to recognise that historic pleasure piers like Eastbourne face significant challenges, not least the substantial costs associated with maintaining these unique structures.
“I welcome the Government’s commitment to meet and discuss my campaign.
“I will continue working with Ministers, heritage organisations, stakeholders and local residents to explore every possible option to help safeguard Eastbourne Pier for future generations.”
The campaign draws attention to the high maintenance costs faced by historic piers.
Mr Babarinde said he hopes a collaborative approach involving government, heritage groups and the community can help secure the pier’s future.
The public can support the campaign by signing the petition at www.eastbournelibdems.org.uk/josh/protect-our-pier.
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