Council and Go Surf to build huge seafront water attraction

A world class water attraction is set to be built in Southport.

Sefton Council has entered into an exclusivity agreement with Go Surf to create Southport Cove Resort, the development of an exciting, new, all year-round attraction with a world class surf wave pool at its heart.

Situated on the seafront, this spectacular project will also include water-based wellness and spa facilities, 4-star accommodation, casual dining (restaurant & cafés), and indoor leisure facilities.

A stunning 250m long beach coupled with a 360-degree boardwalk and planted gardens will mean that visitors can take in the pool’s surrounding landscape, for water users and non-water users alike.

Using the next generation of surf pool technology Southport Cove will make waves that can reach over 2 meters for accomplished surfers, to just 0.5 meters for those who prefer ‘fun’ waves.

Councillor Marion Atkinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said: “Many people will remember that in 1989 the much-loved open-air swimming bath on the seafront next to Princes Park closed its doors to the public for the very last time.

“When we were doing the consultation around the Southport Town Deal it was clear that many people still had memories of the Lido in Southport. This project will, in many ways, bring back a viable facility with all year-round broad visitor appeal, and strike a balance between the memory of this well-loved former attraction and a new, modern, family-oriented offer that will be unique to the region.”

Creating up to 120 new jobs and bringing more than £20 million per annum to the local economy with an expected 150,000 client visits a year, Southport Cove will complement the other exciting opportunities emerging in the town, as part of the Southport Town Deal and beyond. The £40 million project aligns well with Sefton Council’s vision for Southport’s visitor economy, increasing the number of reasons to visit and to stay, all year round.

The founders of Go Surf said: “Southport’s location and existing facilities lend themselves perfectly to the town becoming a true haven for water sports, indoor and outdoor attractions, and wellness. The town benefits greatly from the successful integration of its town centre, marine lake and seafront.

“We’re taking a world class surf pool and building a resort around it that’s far more than just a place for catching waves, something that all visitors and members can enjoy on any given day of the year.

“Our aim is to create a perfect environment where people meet with friends and family, be it to lounge on the beach or in the gardens, catch some waves, relax in the spa, or just grab a coffee and a bite to eat.

“It’s a real privilege to have this opportunity to do something great for our hometown, we are thrilled to be bringing our unique brand of water-based sport to Southport.

“See you down at Southport Cove soon.’’