A section of Brighton's historic West Pier has collapsed into the sea, succumbing to the severe weather conditions brought by Storm Austen. The incident occurred in the East Sussex city as large waves battered the coastline, with footage showing one side of the iconic landmark giving way.

The West Pier, which first opened its doors in 1866, was once a major attraction, drawing up to two million visitors annually at its peak. However, its popularity waned significantly in the post-World War Two era.

While the pier was closed to the public in 1975, its increasingly dilapidated state has made it a recognizable symbol of Brighton for many. The structure has faced significant damage from previous storms and incidents over the years. Major sections of the pier fell into the sea during storms in late 2002.

Further devastation occurred the following year when two separate fires destroyed most of the remaining structure. Subsequent storms have continued to erode its iron frame, contributing to its gradual decay.

The latest collapse adds another chapter to the pier's long history of decline and resilience against the elements. Despite its ruinous state, the West Pier remains a significant part of Brighton's heritage and a subject of public interest.

Experts have long warned about the precarious condition of the pier, with ongoing efforts to preserve what remains of the historic structure proving challenging against the relentless forces of nature.

The collapse serves as a stark reminder of the impact of severe weather on aging coastal infrastructure and historic landmarks.

Further details regarding the extent of the damage and any potential safety implications are expected to be released as assessments are conducted.