As many as 1,400 jobs could be lost if the government decides to close a Merseyside facility as part of a review. Proposals to close the building in north Merseyside would not only have a "significant effect on the local economy" but would also see a change in the lives of many living in the area.
Smedley Hydro in Birkdale, Southport, has seen news coverage in recent months as it was revealed the offices on Trafalgar Road are under review by the government. The building holds staff from the General Register Office, HM Passport Office, the Home Office and NHS Digital, and is one of the largest employers in the Southport area.
Future uncertain under government review
Despite this, its future is uncertain as it is currently being reviewed for closure by the Government Property Agency. The jobs currently housed in the building would likely be moved to Liverpool and Preston should the offices shut by 2030.
As the decision looms, the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) Union continues to fight against the possible closure as it calls for people to join a rally next month to show the desire to keep the doors open.
Union highlights staff concerns
The union explained the primary concerns of its members is the impact of any relocation. A spokesperson said: "Our members' primary concern is the impact any relocation could have on staff, particularly those with disabilities, health conditions, or caring responsibilities."
"Many employees rely on the site's accessibility features, including disabled parking, onsite parking, and local transport arrangements, to enable them to work. We are concerned that reasonable adjustments may not be fully considered in any relocation plans and that increased travel times could make it difficult for some colleagues to continue working their contracted hours."
"There are also concerns about the wider personal and financial impact on employees. Some staff accepted Southport-based roles specifically because of the location and made career decisions based on working close to home. Others left previous employment to join the organisation without any indication that the site's future was uncertain."
The union continued to highlight the issues employees working at Smedley Hydro would face, such as childcare, caring responsibilities and transport costs, should their jobs be relocated.
Union questions closure rationale
They continued: "Members also question the rationale for closure. The Smedley Hydro site is a suitable, well-maintained building that has benefited from significant investment, including a new roof, a new heating system, and double glazing. It offers substantial onsite parking, including disabled parking spaces, and provides an accessible working environment for many employees."
"While many members believe the proposal may be driven by the value of the land, we do not believe the full costs of relocation have been adequately assessed. These costs could include excess fares, redundancy payments, recruitment and training of replacement staff, reasonable adjustments for employees unable to use public transport, and the loss of experienced and specialist colleagues. Any business case should fully recognise these financial and operational impacts."
"There are also serious practical questions about relocating specialist equipment, services, and secure records from a site that has supported this work for decades. The potential loss of skilled and experienced staff presents a significant risk to business continuity and service delivery."
The union continued to reference the effect on the local economy, with Southport losing several public sector jobs from the town hall and tax office. Working in the town allows for money to be used at local businesses.
Rally planned and political support
Calling for people to stand up against the possible closure, the union said: "Such is the strength of feeling among staff and the local community that we are holding a rally in Birkdale Village on Sunday 6th September 2026 at 11am to highlight the importance of retaining these skilled jobs in Southport and to demonstrate support for the future of the site."
"Members remain hopeful that the site can remain open in the long term. The building is fit for purpose, the workforce is highly skilled and experienced, and the site plays an important role within both the organisation and the local economy. We believe all options should be thoroughly explored, with meaningful consultation and transparency throughout the process, before any final decision is made."
Southport MP Patrick Hurley has since supported the union's efforts to deter the government from closing the offices, with the local politician meeting with employees ahead of a meeting with ministers. He has previously written to Paymaster General Nick Thomas-Symonds MP and has continued to engage with the Government, PCS Union, local stakeholders and workers over the future of Smedley Hydro.
A GPA spokesperson previously told the ECHO: "A decision was taken under the previous government to assess long-term options for the site as part of cost-effective management of the government estate."
"No changes would take place until 2030 at the earliest. An extensive consultation will take place with affected staff ahead of any change."
