Crowdfunding raises £466k to save Brighton's seafront terraces

A campaign to raise enough money to restore crumbling Victorian seafront arches has exceeded its initial target.

The entire Grade II-listed cast iron structure that forms Brighton's Madeira Terraces has been closed to the public over fears parts could collapse.

The scheme was initiated by the city council with a target of £421,000 to restore three of the 151 arches.

It attracted widespread support from local residents and businesses, along with celebrities, raising £466,000.

A pledge of £50,000 from Brighton Seafront Regeneration and the private members' club, Soho House, took the figure over its target.

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When the campaign was launched during the summer, Brighton and Hove City Council said it was "calling on people power" to help save the structure following the rejection of a bid for £4m of government funding.

Speaking on Thursday, council Leader Warren Morgan said the "incredible backing" from the local community put the council in a much better position to submit a bid for Heritage Lottery funding.

"We're looking forward to seeing the area returned to its former glory, with the iconic arches restored," he said.

An estimated £24m is needed in total for the regeneration of the arches, which are considered to be the longest cast iron structure in Britain, running from the Aquarium Colonnade to the Volk's railway maintenance building.

The Victorian Society said the structure was one of the top 10 most endangered Victorian and Edwardian buildings in England and Wales.