Sandgrounders take starring role in launch of Town Deal video

A host of Southport residents and businesses have come together to mark the launch of the Southport Town Deal in a special video.

The Southport Town Deal board have today released a video showcasing some of Southport’s main attractions and highlighting the potential of its business and visitor economy. The video also stars a host of Sandgrounders spanning a number of generations to welcome the bid.

Produced by Sefton Council, the film brings together local businesses, students and residents to celebrate the launch of Southport’s bid for government Town Deal funding, worth £50 million for the future transformation and regeneration of the resort.

The bid itself focuses on visitor attractions, water sports, business spaces, water shows and a new events space.

The funding will pave the way for Southport to transform its fortunes and maximise the great potential it has to offer; the bid is hoping to attract a wider £400 million investment.

The bid is part of the government’s Town Deals Fund, developed to ‘level up’ and drive the economic regeneration of towns across England.

Rob Fletcher, Chair of the Town Board said: ““Our plan has been informed by the biggest conversation that the town has ever had about its future. We’ve had 7,000 pieces of individual feedback from residents, business and visitors. 700 school children from the town have also put their ideas forward. Our plan is designed to provide opportunities for our current residents and future generations.”

Dwayne Johnson, Chief Executive at Sefton Council, said: “The Town Deal process has raised the profile of Southport with investors and we can already see the positive effect it is having. For example, Sefton Council has just announced an exclusivity agreement with GoSurf to create The Southport Cove Resort. This £40m privately financed investment will bring a unique surf wave pool and wellness and spa facilities to the heart of the town. The resort will add value to our Town Deal plan and complement our proposed projects, such as the convention and events centre and Marine Lake experience.”

A decision on the funding is expected early 2021 and further details of projects will be released in the next few weeks.