The next stage of the restoration of Southport Pier has begun, with some parts of the structure set to be dismantled in the coming weeks. In an update posted on social media, Sefton Council leader Marion Atkinson said: “You will see some contractor movement in the next couple of weeks. You will also see, coming in July, some dismantling of parts of the pier. [Contractor] A E Yates are on site now, starting work. We promised, we said we would bring our fantastic, beautiful pier back, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Government Funding and Pre-Construction Work
The government announced in March that it would give £20m towards the pier restoration project, and pre-construction work was carried out in April. The Grade II listed structure, the second longest pier in Britain, stretches 3,600 feet and encompasses breathtaking views of Southport’s Marine Lake, Promenade and beach.
Closure Since 2022
The structure has been closed since December 2022 for health and safety reasons. In 2022, Sefton Council approved a £3m repair project for the pier, which would have taken place while keeping the walkway open to the public. However, it later said that a legacy of poor workmanship paired with harsh weather conditions in winter 2022 had caused further damage to the structural condition of the pier, leading to the decision to close it.
Community Concerns and Business Impact
Since the funding announcement, members of the local community, both speaking to the LDRS and on social media, have been asking when work would properly begin, with business owners saying that the pier helps to bring more visitors into the town. Sefton Council said previously that there have been a number of stages to go through before the restoration itself, including securing funding and gaining Listed Building consent.
Reopening Timeline
The pier will remain closed throughout the works, and is due to reopen in the second half of 2027.
