Sefton Council has used the first meeting of full council in 2025 to reiterate its significant support and investment across Southport.

Speaking at a meeting of full council (Thursday January 16th) the Local Authority’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Economy once again set out the Council’s ambitious strategy for Southport’s future.

Recognising the wider challenges Southport faces as a coastal town, Cllr Paulette Lappin was clear in reinforcing Sefton Council’s vision for a thriving seaside destination and a vibrant hub of economic and cultural activity.

“We are delivering on our commitments to Southport,” said Cllr Lappin.

“Through bold investments, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, we’re creating a brighter, more sustainable future for our town.”

The Southport Town Deal, the second-largest of its kind in the UK, has been the cornerstone of this transformation. Key projects include:

• The Marine Lake Events Centre – on which demolition is virtually complete and on which construction works will commence in the next few months.
• Enterprise Arcade – which will be completed and open this Spring
• Les Transformations de Southport – on which work commence this month with ongoing engagement with local businesses and stakeholders

Cllr Lappin said: “Not only are these projects directly impactful but they have also catalysed significant private sector investment, with exciting developments such as the Cove Resort project, enhanced Pleasureland attractions, renewed interest in key sites like the Waterfront Hotel, Lord Street, and the former BHS building, and more, all continuing to progress.”

Councillors and members of the public were also updated on Sefton Council’s commitment to protecting the incredible coastline on our doorstep.

Cllr Lappin added: “Sefton’s 22 miles of stunning coastline remain a vital asset.

“Guided by the Sefton Coast Plan, we have a huge undertaking to sensitively balance leisure and environmental conservation, while safeguarding natural processes, enhancing flood defenses and promoting biodiversity.

“Our coastline is not only a natural treasure but a key element of our climate strategy. By protecting this resource, we’re ensuring it remains a legacy for future generations.”

Councillors also asked for updates on the current status of the Southport Pier refurbishment.

Cllr Lappin said: “In relation to Southport Pier, we have done exactly what we said we would do.

“The Council has committed as much funding as it can afford, it has completed all preparatory and preconstruction work to be ready to go. There is an incredible depth of planning that needed to be done to put the Pier in the best possible position so that refurbishment can begin swiftly once vital and necessary funding is secured.

“As we have previously stated we expect the cost of full refurbishment works to significantly exceed £13 million, far beyond the £3m that the Council have already agreed to borrow to fund decking replacement.

“That cost does not include adequate funding for maintenance thereafter. The Council continues to pursue available funding routes and to explore options to secure the future of the Pier.”

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