Culture minister Barbara Follett has announced that Eastbourne Pier in East Sussex has been upgraded from Grade II status to Grade II* following a review by English Heritage.
The 1,000ft (304.8m)-long pier, which was designed by the renowned Victorian pier architect, Eugenius Birch, first opened in 1870 and was originally awarded Grade II status in 1971.
Follett said: "Eastbourne Pier, which was designed and built by talented Victorian engineer, Eugenius Birch, has long been a focus for this lovely seaside town.
"I hope that recognising its particular importance in this fashion will help to breathe new life into this Victorian masterpiece and will allow many more generations to enjoy the access that it gives to the sea."
