A HISTORIC pier in Blackpool is set for a huge upgrade after being put up for sale last year.
Blackpool’s Grade II-listed North Pier has revealed plans for a £10million restoration while under new ownership.
The historic pier that stretches out 1,140 feet from the beach first opened in 1863 – which makes it one of the oldest in the country.
It even pre-dates Blackpool Tower which opened in May 1894.
Out of Blackpool’s three piers, North Pier is often described as the one that’s more “traditional” and “peaceful”.
While it does have a theatre, amusement arcade, electric train and little eating stalls, it’s much less busy than the two neighbouring attractions.
The pier was put up for sale last summer by the Sedgwick family, which owns the town’s other two piers; Central Pier and South Pier.
It has been bought by Okken Limited which has said it plans on making £10million worth of improvements.
This will include repairs to its theatre as well as the creation of event spaces and it will add a bar at the entrance.
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.”
Phases of investment are set to be announced in the next few months.
Just down the coast from Blackpool’s North Pier is Central Pier which is right beside Madame Tussauds.
The pier is free-entry and has the huge Ferris Wheel, fairground rides , arcades, street food, and cabaret shows.
South Pier Blackpool is another amusement pier which is sometimes even described as a “mini theme park above the sea” .
This is where the seaside town has its most action rides – like dodgems, waltzers, Cliffhanger and Crazy Coaster.
It does also have the traditional arcades and bars too.
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