A £1 million appeal has been launched to create a heritage centre for the West Pier in Brighton.

It was announced jointly by developer St Modwen and the Brighton West Pier Trust.

The launch event took place at Brighton Racecourse, which is managed by St Modwen.

Planning permission for restoring the Grade I listed pier, plus the building of large shoreline pavilions, was granted by city councillors in February.

Now there are plans to create the heritage centre on a site underneath the shore end of the historic pier.

Trust chief executive Geoff Lockwood said: "The aim is for the centre to be a vibrant focus on the history of all aspects of the pier.

"This will enable visitors to experience the reality of the restored pier with a fuller understanding of its engineering, architecture and social history."

There will be photographic displays, an interactive section and a study area.

Dr Lockwood said: "The shell will be provided as part of the restoration package."

The annual operation of the centre will be self-financing but the trust needs up to £1 million for the initial design, fitting and equipment.