Blackpool's iconic Pleasure Pier heads for sale
In the seaside town of Blackpool, a change is on the horizon as the iconic Blackpool North Pier, a Victorian engineering marvel designed by Eugenius Birch, is put up for sale. The pier, which dates back to 1863 and boasts spidery cast and wrought-iron substructure, minaret-roofed kiosks, and an Art Deco theatre that is on Theatres Trust's At Risk Register, is being offered as a unique investment and development opportunity in family entertainment.
The Sedgwick family, who have owned the pier since 2011 and also own Blackpool's Central and South piers, have appointed global real estate advisor Avison Young to find a buyer. However, it is unclear whether the family intends to sell the Central and South piers as well. Some local discussions suggest the family might hope the local council will purchase it, but no official confirmation on buyers or redevelopment plans has been made public. The sale reflects the family's focus on managing their wider portfolio rather than all three piers together.
Meanwhile, in the town of Bangor, Garth Pier is in dire need of repairs. The pier, bought by the Bangor council for just 1p in 1975, is currently trying its best to fall down due to unfavorable environmental conditions. The council has already spent £2.2 million on the substructure of the pier, but a further £40,000 is needed for repairs. A group of locals, Friends of Garth Pier (FGP), has set up a campaign asking for donations for the repairs, and the council has pledged to match any donations received.
The mayor of Bangor, Medwyn Hughes, has stated that the plan is to strengthen the structure underneath Garth pier's platform to make it safe for the next 25 years. He also mentioned that a day like a stormy day is used to demonstrate the need for the remaining funds for Garth pier repairs.
In other news, Jack Watkins, a writer known for his work in conservation, Nature, lost London, history, ghosts, and early rock 'n' roll, soul, and the neglected art of crooning, has contributed to The Independent, The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, and various music magazines. His latest article focuses on the current state of Blackpool North Pier and the potential buyer it might attract.
Tim Mickleburgh, honorary vice-president of the National Piers Society, questions if a suitable buyer will be found for Blackpool North Pier. He also suggests upgrading the listing of Blackpool North's Art Deco theatre from Grade II to II*.
Both Blackpool Central and South Piers date back to the 19th century but have undergone modernization and are not listed. The Newsletter provides updates on exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and tips on how to get the most from your life, making it an interesting read for those following the developments in these historic piers.
