Historic Blackpool piers bought by leisure group

Piers (Blackpool) Ltd has acquired Blackpool’s historic South and Central Piers from Crown Entertainment Centres Ltd with help from Barclays.

Run by members of the Sedgwick family, who have operated venues in the Lancashire town and elsewhere for more than 40 years, Piers (Blackpool) Ltd already owns the North pier and operates attractions on the other sites. Now, it has now fulfilled its aim of fully purchasing the other pier properties, which went up for sale back in March.

The managing director of Piers (Blackpool) Ltd, Peter Sedgewick, said: “The leisure sector has been tough over recent years but we have weathered the storm and emerged stronger for the experience.

“We understand that consumers want more value for money so we have worked to ensure that customers get more time and more value for every penny they spend with us.”

Peter added: “I am passionate about the local area and the local economy. With the support of local councils and entrepreneurs like myself there is a real opportunity to generate jobs and prosperity if we all work together.”

Barclays has previous experience in helping leisure operators to purchase pier sites, having lent financial assistance to North Wales-based Tir Prince Raceway Ltd in its acquisition of Llandudno Pier in May this year.

Barclays’ relationship director, Chris Wynne, said: “By working closely and really understanding the business, Barclays has been able to support the Sedgwick family financially and professionally throughout the investment.

“The family has operated concessions on all three Blackpool piers for the last 18 years and therefore knows the industry inside out and understands the importance of continued investment.”