Future Of Hastings Pier Uncertain As Owner Seeks To Sell Landmark

The owner of Hastings Pier is planning to sell the landmark, with expressions of interest now being invited, according to Hastings Borough Council (HBC).

The council said it had received formal notification from pier owner Sheikh Abid Gulzar of his intention to “dispose of” the site, and had contacted the Friends of Hastings Pier — the community group that successfully had the pier recognised as an asset of community value — to see if they wished to put forward a bid.

In a statement, Friends of Hastings Pier said:

“Bringing the pier back under community control, management and ownership was always a key part of our constitution — which is why we worked hard to get it recognised by HBC as a valuable asset to our town.”

The group confirmed it now plans to submit an expression of interest, which would trigger a six-month moratorium period allowing time to prepare a community bid.

“During that time, we’ll be working towards restoring community control of the pier,” the group added.

“We’d also welcome help from any members keen to support our bid.”

Local MP Helena Dollimore said she had spoken with the Friends of Hastings Pier and offered her “full support in their efforts to protect Hastings Pier and bring it back under community control.”