Eastbourne Pier is 'open for business' despite liquidation

Eastbourne Pier remains fully open for business and is proceeding "full steam ahead" into its summer season despite the compulsory liquidation of its operating company, Lions Pier Limited.

Eastbourne Pier remains fully open for business and is proceeding "full steam ahead" into its summer season despite the compulsory liquidation of its operating company, Lions Pier Limited. 

Current Status and Operations

• Open Status: The historic Eastbourne Pier is welcoming tourists daily with free admission. 
• Seasonal Activities: All standard amenities including tea rooms, traditional amusement arcades, fish and chip outlets, and gift shops are running normally. 
• Council Monitoring: Eastbourne Borough Council is actively supervising the situation to safeguard the day-to-day operation of the town's Grade II* listed landmark. 

The Liquidation Process

• Court Order: The High Court issued a compulsory winding-up order against Lions Pier Limited on 12 May 2026. This order followed a creditor petition originally filed on 25 March 2026. 
• Official Receiver Control: Management and financial operations have transitioned away from the director and are now in the hands of the government's Official Receiver. The Receiver is tasked with auditing the company's financial failure. 
• Ownership Distinction: Local hotelier Sheikh Abid Gulzar (the sole director of the operating firm) retains his personal connection to the underlying freehold asset network. Because the asset ownership is distinct from the specific operating company under liquidation, business activities can continue uninterrupted. 

The liquidation coincides with separate legal proceedings, as Mr Gulzar faces a criminal trial at Lewes Court in late 2026 over unrelated business fraud allegations.