Pier restoration set to begin in early 2026

The restoration of Southport Pier is set to start in early 2026 following last month's announcement of a £20m fund from the government.

The Victorian pier, which is the second longest in the UK, has been shut since 2022 after safety concerns. In August, it was damaged by fire due to an electrical fault.

Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said: "Southport Pier is a structure with a rich history but regrettably with a poor refurbishment programme carried out in early 2000s, the refurbishment left the pier very vulnerable."

The Grade II-listed structure, opened in 1860, stretches out for 1.1km (0.68 miles) and is estimated to contribute more than £15m annually to the economy.

A full restoration, which will also include installation of new gates and CCTV cameras, will take about 14 months to complete, the council said.

Atkinson added: "The council is in the process of submitting a business case to the Department for Business and Trade with the expectation work will begin in early 2026.

"A two-stage design and build procurement process has already been completed, while listed building consent is also secured.

"The pier is a symbol of Southport's identity, history and now, thanks to the council and central government, secured for the town's future too."

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