Hundreds want seaside attraction turned into Wetherspoon’s after sudden closure

A petition has been set up to call for the i360 in Brighton to be turned into a famous pub loved by Brits. 

Last week saw the closure of the iconic landmark on Brighton seafront due to its owners owing more than £51 million. This resulted in 109 members of staff losing their jobs in the run-up to Christmas. 

However, locals are now petitioning to turn the 531ft building into a Wetherspoon pub.

Started on Chance.org, the petition is headed “Turn the i360 into a Spoons”, adding “Give the people what they want.”

The petition went live on Sunday, December 22, amassing 387 signatures so far. Christmas day has seen 134 people sign it already. 

The organiser wrote: “We can all agree that the i360 was a bit sh*t. Cheap pints are not. 

“So what I propose is that council pull their finger out and turn it into a spoons. Give the people what they want.”

One supporter said: “Win-win situation. £1.99 pints at 400 feet.” Another person added: “Economically Brighton cannot afford to have the i360 empty. Give a pub up there a go, why not!!!”

However, anyone hoping for a pint in the tower may be advised to not hold their breath. 

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “Wetherspoon is well known for converting a range of buildings into its pubs included theatres, churches and post offices.

“However, there are no plans to develop the i360 into a Wetherspoon pub although we appreciate people’s desire for that to happen.”

The i360’s main creditor, Brighton and Hove City Council, has no plans to reopen or operate the tourist attraction itself.

The joint administrators, from Interpath Advisory, hope to find a buyer.