Southport town centre businesses see turnover drop by up to 70% following July events

Town centre businesses in Southport have experienced a dramatic downturn in turnover, with reductions ranging from 40% to 70% following the events of July 2024, according to a report presented to Sefton Council.

A report to Sefton Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee claims: “Following the tragic incidents in Southport on 29th July 2024 business in the Town Centre reported a dramatic drop in business, this continued throughout the summer and has shown little signs of recovery.”

“Many businesses are reporting between a 40%-70% drop in turnover, furthermore July 2024 was the worst July on record for rainfall with many hospitality and attraction venues reporting their worst July since records began (not including lockdown).”

In August, the government announced a “package of support for the local community” via a press release.

However, when asked by OTS News whether Sefton Council had received any financial recovery aid, a council spokesperson stated: “A positive update on this will be provided in the coming weeks.”

When asked in August about reduced footfall in Southport Town Centre, Patrick Hurley MP told OTS News: “Footfall is down compared to what you’d expect in the middle of August. The government has been keen to introduce a ‘long-term recovery package’ for the town. Part of that will involve business support and making sure that we can get the town’s reputation and economy on a firmer footing than it has been previously.

“I’ve been in meetings with ministers and relevant agencies over the past couple of weeks to start that process of deciding what that looks like. There’s still time for an emotional response but we do need to start planning for the coming months and years.”

In September, Sefton Council launched a £500,000 Business Recovery Fund, specifically targeting businesses in areas such as Hart Street and St Luke’s Road that suffered damages or closures due to the events in July.

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy, and Skills, emphasized the council’s commitment to supporting local businesses: “We are acutely aware of how vital businesses are to ensuring Southport and the wider borough recover from the tragic and shocking events of July.”

She continued: “We’re doing everything possible to provide the help businesses need. This includes leveraging the expertise of our senior officers to assist businesses and investors, making it easier for them to rebuild and grow.”