THE auctioneer trying to sell Cleethorpes Pier says he is "angry and disappointed" that the iconic venue is back on the market again.
Edward Swindell – who was tasked with selling the pier by owner Bryn Ilsley – claims the company who had agreed to buy it for £450,000, Staplecross Property Partnership, has failed to meet its contractual obligations.
Mr Swindell, of Lincoln-based Swindells Auctioneers and Consultants, said: "The vendor and I are disappointed, not to mention angry, with this situation.
"After giving the intending purchaser three months to fulfil certain contractual obligations, the vendor has been forced to bring the contract to an end.
"It means we are now looking for a new owner or tenant for the pier.
"In the meantime, the issue of the current contract has been referred to our legal team."
The Grimsby Telegraph was unable to contact Staplecross Property Partnership at the time of going to press.
As reported, Mr Ilsley spent £200,000 refurbishing the landmark after buying it in May 2010.
But when leaseholders Alistair Clugston and Hugo Marfleet decided to close the venue for unknown reasons, he decided to sell up.
When it went under the hammer in February, it failed to sell, despite national interest and six internet bidders registering their interest.
The highest bid was £390,000 – which failed to reach the guide price of £400,000.
Speaking to the Telegraph directly after the auction, owner Mr Ilsley, said: "To be completely honest I was half expecting it to go unsold on the night.
"It could be a blessing in disguise for me as it gives me longer to consider my options and what I want to do."
After attracting attention from the national media, potential buyers came forward and a deal was made with London-based Staplecross. The highest price the pier – which is one of just 55 in the country – has ever sold for was £1 million in the 1980s.
Among those who turned out to watch the auction back in February were Roy Saxby, of Cleethorpes, his son, Nigel Saxby, and grandson Dylan, 11.
Roy said: "We wanted to come along because it's such an iconic building that is unlikely to ever go to auction again. I think it should stay almost as it is, but with more shows and daytime events."
Nigel added: "I think we would all like to see it used by locals and visitors."
Anyone with interest in the venue should contact Mr Swindell on 07971 033276.
