North Pier, Blackpool's oldest and most iconic pier, has entered a new chapter, with a £10million investment programme planned.
It’s been purchased by Okken Ltd, who say they will refurbish, renovate and restore the landmark to its former glory.
The new ownership sets out a clear vision: to sensitively restore the pier's historic fabric while introducing a series of enhancements that will secure its future as one of the resort's leading attractions.
Planned works include a comprehensive refurbishment of the structure, an enhanced and upgraded theatre, new media and event spaces, and a striking new bar offering at the pier's entrance, delivered under recently granted planning permission. Further phases of investment and development will be announced in the months ahead.
Paul Cooper for Okken said: ‘’We wish to pay warm tribute to the Sedgwick family, who have been the pier's custodians for the past 15 years. Under their stewardship, North Pier has been operated as a cherished landmark, welcoming millions of visitors while protecting its unique heritage and character. We are grateful to be inheriting this is exciting landmark and are very optimistic of it future position as a premier landmark within Blackpool.
"North Pier is a piece of living history, and it is a privilege to take on its care.
"We want to thank the whole team for everything they have done over the past 15 year, many of them joining us on the piers next exciting chapter, and we are building on the strong foundation they have created. Our commitment is simple: to invest, to restore, and to bring this wonderful pier back to its very best, while adding the kind of experiences that will make it a destination for generations to come. We see ourselves as guardians of this landmark. Visitors, tenants, suppliers and the wider community can be assured of a seamless transition.
"The management team here has a deep understanding of the pier and a real passion for it. We're delighted they will continue to lead day-to-day operations as we begin this exciting next phase together.”
The existing management team will remain in place, and it will be business as usual for the remainder of 2026, with all planned events, entertainment programmes and visitor experiences continuing as scheduled.
North Pier is a Grade II listed Victorian pleasure pier, built by Eugenius Birch in 1863. Three bars, a 1,465-seat theatre, an amusement arcade, an electric train, a working concession community, and 500 metres of decking out into the Irish Sea.
Blackpool in final four to be named UK City of Culture 2029
Commemorating Blackpool’s hospitality to Hungarian refugees 70 years on
Metropole owners working ‘behind the scenes’ on plans for landmark hotel
New police operation tackles misogyny in football
Playground vandals getting away with it, says councillor after arson outrage
‘’I want to work with Blackpool Council to bring new community hub to old Abingdon St Post Office’’
Council still in talks with final landlord on demolition terrace
Major update on multi-million pound Yates Bar project on Blackpool promenade
