Sefton Council has formally submitted a detailed business case to the Government in a major step towards repairing and reopening the iconic Southport Pier.
If the business case is successful, the Local Authority expects restoration works on the much-loved landmark to begin in early 2026, bringing fresh hope that the pier could finally reopen to the public after more than three years of closure.
The Grade II listed structure has been closed since December 2022 due to health and safety concerns. Now, subject to approval, a £20 million investment from the UK Government’s Growth Mission Fund will fund a full and comprehensive restoration of the pier.
To access the funding, Sefton Council was required to submit a formal business case to the Government’s Department for Business and Trade. This will be assessed by a dedicated Growth Mission Fund panel later this month (January 2026).
The funding opportunity was first announced last year, following extensive planning, structural investigations and public safety work carried out by the Council since the pier was forced to close to protect visitors.
Stretching an impressive 3,600 feet, Southport Pier is the second longest pier in Britain and offers sweeping views across the town’s promenade, beach and Marine Lake. It remains one of the most recognisable and historic landmarks in Southport.
Crucially, the proposed restoration will go far beyond the original decking replacement plans approved three years ago, with the Government-backed investment allowing for a far more extensive programme of works to secure the pier’s long-term future.
If approved, the project would mark a significant milestone in Southport’s regeneration, safeguarding a treasured heritage asset and paving the way for its return as a major visitor attraction on the Sefton coast.
Following detailed surveys, the scope now includes:
– Full replacement of decking boards and timber joists
– Extensive steelwork repairs and replacements due to corrosion
– Installation of new gates and CCTV
– Implementation of a new long-term maintenance regime
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council said:
“I have been on record countless times saying we would be ready to start these works as soon as we get funding and we are staying completely true to our word.
“A two-stage design and build procurement process has already been completed, while listed building consent is also secured.
“We were delighted with the announcement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer in 2025 who, as we do, recognises the importance of Southport Pier and the agreement to support the Pier with up to £20million of investment.
“The Council has now submitted a full and complete business case to the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and we still expect work will begin in early 2026.
“We are working closely with the DBT to progress this process at pace.
“The business case has set out the up-to-date construction costs while also addressing the need for ongoing yearly maintenance including options such as the use of the Pier contingency fund, planning obligations and other forms of income raising initiatives.
“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!
“However we have never considered giving up on it. 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.
“Consultation has also taken place with Historic England, the Southport Pier Trust, and the Pier Society, ensuring the works fully respect the pier’s historic significance.
“I am grateful to the Government for recognising the importance of Southport Pier. This funding allows us to deliver a safe, sustainable and significant restoration that will benefit generations to come.”
Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the northern parishes, said:
“This next step on the way to the reopening of Southport Pier is fantastic news for our town. Thanks to the Government’s £20 million commitment in the June spending review, this proposal now sets out a clear plan for the repair, reopening, and long-term maintenance of the Pier.
As the jewel of Southport’s coastline, the pier’s decline in recent years has been a matter of both local and national concern. This proposal by Sefton Council offers a promising opportunity to restore a much-loved landmark and reaffirm this Government’s commitment to the preservation and support of local cultural heritage. Its revival will not only boost our local economy but also reignite pride across throughout my constituency.”
For more information on Southport Pier visit the website.
