Up to £20 million in Treasury funding has been confirmed for the restoration of Southport's historic Grade II-listed pier. The announcement, made by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, paves the way for repair work to begin early next year, with the landmark expected to reopen to the public within three years.
The Victorian pier has been closed since December 2022 due to structural damage, which was later compounded by a fire in August. The new funding aims to address these issues and secure the future of the popular seaside attraction.
Key Takeaways
- Southport Pier will receive up to £20 million in government funding for restoration.
- Construction work is scheduled to start in early 2025.
- The pier is projected to reopen to the public within a three-year timeframe.
- The structure has been closed since December 2022 due to weather damage and a subsequent fire.
Funding Confirmed During Chancellor's Visit
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the financial commitment during a visit to Southport on Saturday. The timing of the announcement coincided with the lead-up to the Labour Party conference, held just 18 miles away at the ACC Liverpool.
The Treasury's backing is intended to cover the extensive repairs needed to bring the 164-year-old structure back into public use. The pier is a significant local landmark and a key driver for the town's tourism economy.
"Southport Pier is a beloved landmark," Ms. Reeves stated. "A national treasure that has been allowed to fall into disrepair, no longer. I’m proud that through our Plan for Change, families across Merseyside should be able to enjoy this wonderful attraction again."
The Path to Closure and Damage
The decision to close Southport Pier in December 2022 was made by Sefton Council after inspections revealed significant problems. The council reported that extreme weather had accelerated the deterioration of the pier's decking, making it unsafe for public access.
The situation worsened at the end of August when a fire broke out on the structure. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and tackled the blaze, which affected an area measuring approximately 20 metres by five metres. An electrical fault is believed to have been the cause of the fire, which caused further damage to the pier's understructure and surface.
A History of Resilience
According to Historic England, Southport's pleasure pier was originally built between 1859 and 1860. The structure has faced significant challenges before, including a major fire in 1933 that destroyed its pier head and pavilion, demonstrating its long history of restoration and survival.
Local Leaders Welcome Restoration Plans
The news of the funding has been met with positive reactions from regional leaders, who have highlighted the pier's cultural and economic importance. Steve Rotheram, the Labour Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, emphasized the landmark's role in the community.
"Southport Pier holds a special place in the hearts of people across the Liverpool City region and beyond," said Mr. Rotheram. "Generations of families have walked along it, shared ice creams on it, and made memories that last a lifetime. Its closure has been felt deeply by the whole community."
Economic and Community Impact
Mayor Rotheram also pointed to the wider benefits of the restoration, thanking the government for committing the necessary funds. He noted that the project would help protect local jobs and serve as a major draw for tourists visiting the seaside town.
Merseyside's Visitor Economy
The restoration of a key attraction like Southport Pier is seen as a vital investment in the region's tourism sector. According to Mayor Rotheram, the Liverpool City Region's visitor economy is currently valued at £6.25 billion, and landmark attractions are crucial to sustaining and growing this figure.
"Working with Sefton Council, we’ll make sure the pier once again stands proud as both a symbol of our heritage and a driver of future prosperity in our growing £6.25 billion visitor economy," the mayor added.
Project Timeline and Next Steps
With funding now secured, the project is set to move forward quickly. The current timeline outlines the key stages for the pier's revival:
- Project Start: Work is expected to begin on the pier in early 2025.
- Construction Phase: The restoration will involve extensive structural repairs to the decking and supports, addressing both the long-term wear and the recent fire damage.
- Projected Reopening: The Treasury anticipates that the pier will be ready to welcome visitors again within three years of the work commencing.
The restoration of the Grade II-listed pier is a complex undertaking that will require careful planning to preserve its historic character while ensuring it meets modern safety standards. The project represents a significant investment in both local heritage and the future of Southport as a premier coastal destination.