Work has begun on Brighton’s i360 tower despite the project being delayed by another year.

Steelwork for the tower is being pressed at a factory in Holland and the people behind the proposed 167- yard tall icon say it will open in 2011.

The tower will be built at the shore end of Brighton’s derelict West Pier.

Architect David Mark, from firm Marks Barfield, said: “We are delighted work has started. It is taking us a little longer than anticipated to start on site which is being put back to next year and we expect to open in 2011. We remain 100% committed to the project.”

A total of 660 tonnes of steel plate is being rolled at a factory near Maastricht into a steel tube, which will form the 144-yard high core of the tower.

Brighton and Hove City Council cabinet member Councillor Ted Kemble said: “It’s great to see work on this project actually starting over in Holland.

“This is a good display of confidence in the future of the i360 itself and Brighton and Hove as a destination.

The news should give a lift to the city and regional economy.”