A report found five trusses underneath the pier had failed

An application to Hastings magistrates to formally close the town's pier is to be made on Wednesday over concerns for the safety of the structure.

Hastings Borough Council said closing the pier was a last resort.

"We had to put public safety first. We will help the traders as much as we can," a spokesperson said.

Hastings council used emergency powers to close the 130-year-old structure starting at the main entrance building last week, but was seeking to formally approve the closure.

The area next to the promenade has remained open.

'Damning report'

Council spokesman Kevin Boorman said the decision to close the pier was made following a damning engineering report.

"They told us that in one area alone five trusses underneath the pier had failed. They said one on its own is just about OK, but any more than that and you have a serious problem."

Hamesh Pooni, commercial agent for Boss Management who run the pier, believes an alternative to closing the pier could have been sought.

"I feel for the traders. We will look at ways of helping them but I'm not sure how we can."

Hastings council said if the application was granted the closure would remain "for at least the short term".