Overview

• Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that the new Growth Mission Fund will cover the £13 million cost to repair Southport Pier, closed since December 2022 due to structural damage
• Sefton Council has pledged to release detailed project proposals by late summer and begin on-site restoration shortly after funds are received
• Local businesses such as Colin Jamieson’s family-run stalls reported steep losses following the pier’s shutdown and voiced optimism about the economic boost from its reopening
• The pier investment forms part of a wider £600 billion capital spending programme over the next three to four years aimed at revitalising regional infrastructure and coastal heritage
• Labour MP Patrick Hurley and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram praised the announcement as a key step towards restoring Southport’s tourism appeal and supporting local jobs