At 1.34 miles, Southend's pier is the longest pleasure pier in the world. Built in 1889, it was designed by the renowned civil engineer James Brunlees. The following year an electric tramway was installed. In order to accommodate the growing number of steamers that brought visitors to the popular resort, the pier was extended in 1897 and again in 1929. Like many seaside resort piers it has suffered considerably over time, from collisions and particularly from fire.
Historic England Archive EAW002214.