For sale: Iconic pier
PLUS: We look into what's been happening with the Jameson Road landfill
Hello and welcome to The Blackpool Lead.
I would open by saying the news that North Pier is for sale came as a shock - but last time I was walking down it there were warning signs everywhere regarding the uneven decking.
It goes without saying that North Pier is an enormous part of Blackpool’s heritage. But you only need look across the water at Southport to see that it can’t be taken as a given that a pier will continue to provide entertainment to the public and tourists.
In this week’s edition we look at the background to the sale and try to give some insight on how much money could be expected to change hands when the sale does go through.
I also talk about my experiences reporting on Jameson Road landfill in Fleetwood - which I’ve tried to do consistently this year. It’s been frustrating - but nowhere near as frustrating for me as it has been for people living there.
Potential pier sale an opportunity - and a concern - for Blackpool
By Luke Beardsworth
The future of Blackpool’s longest and oldest pier is in doubt after it was listed for sale.
Blackpool’s North Pier, on the seafront and close to the Tower, opened in 1863 and has survived fires, storms and collisions from boats.
But now there is both concern and opportunity, according to the area’s MP, regarding the future of North Pier.
Chris Webb, MP for Blackpool South which is home to the northernmost pier, said: “The announcement regarding the sale of Blackpool North Pier brings both concern and opportunity.
“As the local MP, I want to assure the residents of Blackpool that I am committed to protecting this iconic landmark for future generations.
“The pier is not just a structure; it is a vital part of our community’s heritage and identity.
“It is essential that any new ownership prioritises its preservation and continued accessibility, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
“Together, we can safeguard this treasure for the enjoyment of our children and grandchildren.”
The pier was sold to Peter Sedgwick in April 2011 - and a 50p admission charge was abolished at the same time.
It is home to the Joe Longthorne Theatre, in memory of the singer who had performed there for 20 seasons.
Blackpool North Pier is being marketed by Avison Young, who describe themselves as global real estate advisors.
Among the reasons for the sale cited is the challenges of the pandemic and the opportunity to focus on Central and South pier
A spokesperson for Northern Victorian Pier Ltd, a business ultimately owned by The Sedgwick family, said: “Bringing North Pier to market is a decision we’ve made with a heavy heart. However, following the events of the past few years, we’ve chosen to focus our attention on the wider portfolio, including Central and South Piers.
“Our passion for North Pier has never wavered and we have continued to invest in it throughout the challenges of COVID. There remains a fantastic opportunity to enhance the visitor offer, particularly through the proposed refurbishment of the former Merrie England Bar, and to shape a pier that’s ready for the future.”
Richard Baldwin, director of leisure at Avison Young, said: “Blackpool North Pier is a rare and exciting opportunity to acquire a prominent, multi-faceted family entertainment attraction in one of the UK’s flagship seaside destinations.
“With its mix of leisure, entertainment, and food and beverage uses, combined with clear potential to further develop and enhance the existing offer of the Merrie England Bar, the asset presents both immediate income and long-term growth opportunities.
“We expect strong interest from a wide range of investors and operators keen to capitalise on Blackpool’s enduring popularity and ongoing regeneration.”
The agents state that ‘sensible offers’ are invited, though there is no indication of what value is expected for Blackpool North Pier.
The Blackpool Lead asked Blackpool Council for its view.
In 2023, Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare was bought by North Somerset Council for a price of £400,000. That pier, however, was derelict and purchased through a compulsory purchase order.
In 2024, Southwold Pier in East Anglia was sold to a local couple for an undisclosed sum.
And in 2021, Skegness Pier, the closest comparison to Blackpool North pier in terms of attractions, was sold for £3m.
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Jameson Road landfill row has become a battle to save reputations - not protect people
Analysis by Luke Beardsworth
It’s now been over two weeks since residents in Fleetwood were last told that the Jameson Road landfill doesn’t smell that bad, actually.
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