Oldest cast iron pier is reopened

Gravesend's cast iron pier dates from 1834 and was restored in 2006

The world's oldest surviving cast iron pier has reopened after a business failure closed it for about six months.

The Grade-II listed Gravesend Town Pier, in Kent, was shut earlier this year when the firm which ran its restaurant went into administration.

Gravesham Town Council said London-based company Culinary Solutions UK had taken out a lease on the property.

The pier was first opened in 1834 and underwent a major restoration project in 2006.

Council leader Mike Snelling said re-opening the pier, which is at the end of the historic high street, has helped the town return to its "river heritage" and enhanced the town's "magnificent features" .

He said: "This oldest cast iron pier in the world is the jewel in the crown.

"When it was the restaurant before, sitting there at dusk looking out over the river was probably one of the best views in Kent."