Second Southport bid submitted for Heritage Lottery funding

It will focus on historic properties between Lord Street and the Promenade and aims to complement the previous Lottery funded restoration of King’s Gardens and the recent £2m award from the Coastal Communities funds for Southport pier.

The total combined funding pot is £2.47 million including a request of £1.62m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The second round is very competitive and is open to bids nationally and Sefton will find out in September 2019 if they are successful.

Cllr Daren Veidman, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Building Control, said: “Since we submitted our first round bid, a lot of work has been undertaken to fully develop the project including the adoption of the Conservation Area Management Plan, discussions with building owners, building property surveys and valuations, further public consultation and workshops with project partners.

“If approved we really believe the money will enhance the links between Lord Street and the Promenade reducing the vacant and poorly maintained properties and greatly increasing economic activity in these areas.

“The project also aims to increase local knowledge and appreciation of Southport’s rich heritage and inspire future generations featuring specialist educational courses on traditional building methods, the innovative use of digital technology, as well as a mix of complementary heritage-focused activities.”

If successful the project will be delivered over the next 5 years up until 2024.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Labour Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, added: “The overall project aims to carry out essential conservation work, involving structural and external repair of historic buildings, the reinstatement of authentic architectural features and works to bring vacant floor space in historic buildings back into use.

“Lord Street and the Promenade conservation areas provide a rich and nationally significant collection of historic buildings and landscaping. We firmly believe preserving this heritage for residents, businesses and visitors alike will contribute greatly to the town’s economy while providing a strong sense of identity, local pride and community value.

“It runs along the recent King’s Gardens improvements, the Pier restoration, the Lord Street verandah project and other key developments in the resort.”

To keep up to date with the project and find out more information on Southport’s Heritage, follow us on Twitter @SouthportTHP and Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/southportthp