The grade-II listed structure is the longest pleasure pier in the world

Southend-on-Sea council has given the go-ahead to a new cultural centre planned for the end of the town鈥檚 historic pier.

Originally constructed in the Victorian era, the 1.34 mile long, grade II-listed structure is the longest pleasure pier in the world, and will re-open to the public in spring 2012.

Plans for the pier head were drawn up by Swedish architect White Arkitekter in partnership with UK-based architect Sprunt and structural engineer Price & Myers.