‘Rotted’ Southport pier needs £200k to save itself

Tourism chiefs are hoping a major cash influx of more than £200,000 will be enough to save the ‘rotting’ Southport pier.

Council bosses have this week revealed in a report that a huge project of works will now begin to replace the entire length of wooden decking, if funding is agreed.

Due to the pier’s popularity the works will take place in a series of stages to make sure it remains open.

Council finance chief Stephan Van Arendsen said: “Southport Pier is a Grade II listed structure, the oldest cast iron pier in England and the second longest. The asset is a critical element to Southport’s visitor economy along with the wider economy of the borough.

“The Pier decking needs to be replaced in its entirety due to its current condition.

“The decking is rotting from within meaning it is only detected when a timber piece snaps.

“The Council employed a specialist timber expert who devised a programme of works and the specification of timber.

“The replacement decking will have to be done in several phases.”

Councillors will be asked to approve the £200,000 spend at the Full Council meeting next Thursday (19th May).