Buzz builds in Southport after pier funding promise

The owners of one of Southport's largest tourist attractions have said people in the town are "elated" after it was the seaside resort's pier could benefit from government money.

The Victorian structure has been closed over safety fears since December 2022, and has an estimated repair bill cost of £13m.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed on Wednesday the pier would benefit from cash from a new fund aimed at speeding up 'forgotten' local projects to encourage growth.

Serena Silcock of Silcock Leisure Group, which runs Funland and the carousel near the entrance to the pier, said a re-opening of the landmark would help put the town "back on the map".

She said: "The people have spoken and we have to thank Southport, the community for highlighting the plight of the pier and showing this is what we want," she said.

"Their voice was strong and it was heard. I'm elated, the whole town is elated."

The grade-II listed structure, the second longest pier in the UK, shut three years ago after a structural survey found corroded steelwork and unstable decking.

Sefton Council previously said it could not afford the £13m restoration costs.

The chancellor's announcement of cash for the pier came during the government's recent Spending Review.

"We are so happy, this is the news we wanted, it is the best news for the town," Ms Silcock said.

Maz Langshaw, who owns community-run coffee shop The Old BakeHouse, said she hoped the re-opening of the pier would be a catalyst for wider regeneration in the town.

She said: "It's been a long time coming but we are really excited.

"The buzz is coming, it's slow but you can feel it.

"I think we need to start thinking positively because there's been a lot of delays but let's focus on what we are going to be doing in the future."

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