From what I've read in the report i.e. appendix 2 9.1 concluded that the cast-iron piles and columns supporting the Pier were structurally sound but that some elements, such as the bracing system and steel girders supporting the steel deck, were in poor condition and would require replacement.
Correct me if I'm wrong but surely that means the legs are fine but every thing else, including the bracing to support the legs, will have to be replaced. So I think to say the Steel Structure of the Pier is solid, might be construed as a trifle optimistic.
The original structural survey, by Datrys, says (to summarise a little):
1. Cast iron piles & columns in good condition (need only cleaning & painting).
2. Some (but not all - 60% cited) of the main girders need replacing. Some need repairing rather than replacing.
3. Low level horizontal bracing struts need cleaning, and their connection fixings and fittings replaced.
4. Column bracing members and bracing clasps need replacing.
A lot of work to be done, but I think the council report's point was the structure is better than expected. Remember that certain councillors have been quoted by local newspapers (for years) as saying that the pier is too far gone and not salvageable. That's simply false. It's that kind of misleading information that needs countering repeatedly.
The survey also made the point that the condition of the pier is varied. The seaward end is worse. But the area below the pavilion requires fewer girders to be replaced, and could survive in a weakened state for much longer due to high level of redundancy in the structure... etc