Leisure operator Okken Ltd has acquired Blackpool’s North Pier from the Sedgwick family, promising a £10m investment programme to “refurbish, renovate and restore the landmark to its former glory,” including upgrades to the existing theatre and a new event space and bar.
Blackpool’s North Pier has been acquired by Okken Ltd, with the leisure investor announcing plans to spend £10m renovating and refurbishing the 163-year-old landmark, while introducing “a series of enhancements that will secure its future.”
The Grade II-listed pier was placed on the market by the Sedgwick family in January after 15 years of ownership, with Okken set to retain the existing management team due to their “deep understanding of the pier and real passion for it.”
“North Pier is a piece of living history, and it is a privilege to take on its care,” said Okken CEO Paul Cooper. “We want to thank the whole team for everything they have done over the past 15 years, many of them joining us on the pier’s 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.”
According to Okken’s website, the company acquires established trading businesses “where the operation is sound, the team is capable, and the asset has a quality worth preserving.” “We retain the people who run them, respect what is already working, and invest steadily in what can be improved.”
Regarding North Pier, Cooper said it will be “business as usual” for the remainder of 2026, with all planned events, entertainment programmes and visitor experiences continuing as scheduled.
Looking ahead, the company will undertake “a comprehensive refurbishment of the structure,” including an enhanced and upgraded theatre, new media and event spaces, and a new bar at the pier’s entrance, with further investment to follow.
“As Blackpool’s oldest and longest pier, North Pier remains a cornerstone of the resort’s tourism offering and an enduring part of the town’s heritage. The new ownership looks forward to working closely with the team, tenants, partners and the local community to deliver its investment plans and ensure the pier flourishes for many years to come.”
Blackpool’s northern star
Paul Cooper 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……
