Blackpool's historic North Pier, one of England's oldest and most iconic piers, has been sold to a London-based company with a £10 million restoration plan to return the 162-year-old structure to its Victorian glory.
Sale Details and New Ownership
The Grade II-listed pier, which opened in 1863 and stretches 1,410 feet into the Irish Sea, was purchased by Okken Limited, a company registered in London. It was put up for sale last summer by the Sedgwick family, which also owns Blackpool's other two piers—Central Pier (opened 1868) and South Pier (opened 1893). The sale marks the first change of ownership for North Pier in recent decades.
Restoration Plans and Investment
Okken has committed to a £10 million refurbishment programme aimed at restoring the pier to its former Victorian splendour. Plans include improvements to the Joe Longthorne Theatre, creation of new media and event spaces, and a new bar at the entrance. The company stated that further phases of investment will be announced in the coming months.
Paul Cooper from Okken said: "North Pier is a piece of living history, and it is a privilege to take on its care. Our commitment is simple: to invest, to restore, and to bring this wonderful pier back to its very best."
Current Operations and Staff
The pier currently employs 10 full-time, three part-time, and approximately 40 seasonal staff. The current management team will remain in place, and all events and entertainment will continue as normal this year. The pier features a two-tier Victorian carousel, an electric train, an amusement arcade, and various cafes, takeaways, and bars.
Historical Significance
North Pier predates Blackpool Tower by 31 years and was built with a wooden deck above a substructure of cast iron girders. It is one of three piers in the seaside town and is considered a key attraction. Okken's plans aim to secure the pier's long-term future as a leading Blackpool destination.
