One of England’s oldest and most iconic seaside piers could now be yours, as Blackpool’s 162-year-old North Pier is up for sale. The Grade II-listed North Pier, which opened on May 21, 1863, was bought in 2011 by the Sedgwick family, which also owns the town’s other two later piers, South (opened in 1893) and Central (opened in 1868).
Now North Pier, which predates the Lancashire resort’s famous tower by 31 years, stretches about 1,410 ft (430m) out from the shore, is up for sale for an undisclosed price. Global real estate agents Avison Young said the landmark’s turnover last year was £2.3m, and they are looking for “sensible offers” for the Victorian promenade attraction.
Directors for Northern Victorian Pier Ltd, who currently own all three Blackpool piers, 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.”
North Pier was built from a wooden deck above a cast iron girder substructure and currently employs 10 full-time, three part-time, and approximately 40 seasonal staff.
It also includes the Joe Longthorne Theatre, an amusement arcade, a two-tier Victorian carousel, an electric train, and a variety of cafes, takeaways, and bars.
Avison Young: “Situated in a flagship location on Blackpool’s famous promenade, adjacent to the iconic Blackpool Tower, the Grade II-listed North Pier is one of the UK’s most historic and well-loved seaside landmarks, retaining its original Victorian features.
“North Pier was the first pier built in Blackpool in 1863, has been under the same family ownership for the past 14 years and is now being brought to market.
“The freehold also benefits from a premises licence, an adult gaming licence, and a gaming machine permit.”
They said further development opportunities include the proposed redevelopment of the Merrie England Bar, with a planning application currently pending for renovation works to enhance and modernise the space.
Richard Baldwin, Director, 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.”