The future of Eastbourne Pier has been thrust into the political spotlight as the seaside resort’s MP has reacted swiftly to the uncertain ownership of the attraction by launching a petition as well as petitioning the government to help the Pier survive.
The MP for Eastbourne has launched a campaign to safeguard the future of the town’s pier following the collapse of owner Abid Gulzar’s company Lions Pier Ltd last month.
Josh Babarinde, representing the LibDems, has published a petition via the party’s website calling for action from the government to ensure the attraction’s survival.
“Eastbourne Pier has stood proudly on the town’s seafront for more than 150 years,” said Babarinde. “It is the beating heart of our seaside town. The Pier plays a vital role in our local economy and is central to our town’s identity and heritage.”
“Eastbourne Pier, like many historic pleasure piers across the country, faces significant challenges, not least the substantial costs associated with maintaining these iconic structures. I am calling on the Government to work with the local communities, relevant stakeholders and heritage organisations to explore what support can be made available to help safeguard historic pleasure piers.”
The pier was recently designated a frozen asset of Lions Pier Ltd by the Official Receiver, with Gulzar expected to sell the attraction in order to repay creditors.
Commenting on the petition, a spokesperson for Eastbourne Council said “while the pier has always been in private ownership, council officers routinely check its general condition and these checks will continue.”
So what’s going on with the ownership of Eastbourne and Hastings Piers?
The ongoing liquidation of Lions Piers Ltd has cast fresh doubt on the future ownership of Eastbourne and Hasting Piers, with the Official Receiver due to decide the fate of both attractions, currently declared frozen assets.
The ruling comes after a compulsory winding-up order was issued last month following a petition filed by the company’s creditors, while owner Abid Gulzar continues to await a £150,000 fraud trial.
“If it is determined the pier’s physical structure is owned by Lions Pier Ltd, then the Official Receiver, who is responsible for investigating the reasons behind the company’s failure, could sell the attraction as part of the liquidation process,” reported the Express.
“However, if Mr Gulzar holds the freehold separately, he may retain control of the asset despite the company’s collapse.”
Commenting on the situation, a spokesperson for Eastbourne Borough Council said “we are monitoring the situation at Eastbourne Pier very closely.”
“It is an iconic and much-loved seafront attraction, and we hope the Official Receiver can secure an outcome that ensures it remains open and restored for residents, visitors and businesses based on the pier. While the pier has always been in private ownership, council officers routinely check its general condition and these checks will continue.”
Originally published on Coinslot on June 22, 2026. Republished with permission.