Sefton Council has received approval to move forward with repairs to one of the UK's oldest piers

Sefton Council has received approval to move forward with long-awaited repairs to Southport Pier, one of the UK's oldest piers. The plans involve the removal of disused tram tracks and the replacement of the pier’s wooden deck with new boards that will match the original design.

The Council’s Planning Department granted Listed Building Consent for the work, which will see the full length of the pier resurfaced. The proposal was submitted by Sefton Council’s Tourism Team and was swiftly approved within 24 hours.

At over 160 years old and stretching more than 1.1 km, Southport Pier has been closed for safety reasons since 2022, following advice from structural engineers. Harsh weather conditions in December of that year further damaged the decking, speeding up the need for repairs.

Earlier this year, it was estimated that restoring the pier would cost over £13 million—significantly higher than the £3 million the Council had initially secured to fund the decking replacement. However, Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson has expressed the Council’s commitment to reopening the pier, stating, “We have a clear plan in place for the more than £13 million of work required, which will begin as soon as funding is secured.”

Sefton Council has created a digital hub at www.sefton.gov.uk/SouthportPier where residents, visitors, and businesses can access a list of frequently asked questions and stay updated on the project’s progress.

Earlier in the year, A E Yates conducted detailed exploratory works on the pier. The Council has also assembled a team of local experts, including Southport-based RAL Architects and leading structural engineers, to oversee the project.

Before construction begins, a sample of the decking will be placed on-site for final approval to ensure the materials align with the pier’s heritage status. The approved boards, 95mm x 35mm Ekki timber with stainless steel fixings, will then be installed along the pier.

The restoration of Southport Pier is part of Sefton Council’s ongoing efforts to preserve this historic landmark for future generations.