As well as being a popular spot for beach lovers, Ainsdale-On-Sea is an important asset that the Council is committed to developing and protecting for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.

The Council are in the process of appointing a contractor to undertake the toilet refurbishment works at Ainsdale-On-Sea. The contractor identified is to submit a final cost estimate and updated delivery programme to the Council, which should then allow works to begin later this year.

The positive news comes during an extremely challenging time within the construction sector, with exacerbating supply chains and inflated prices having a knock-on effect on tender processes.

A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “Following a competitive tender process, quotes to undertake the work were significantly higher than anticipated.

“Council officers and external consultants have been diligent and thorough throughout the tender process and sought an immediate review of alternative compliant contractor routes to identify another contractor.

“The Council has a financial responsibility to ensure that budgets are maintained, and improvement works are delivered to a high quality. The additional time required to explore tender options is expected to deliver a financial saving compared to the original tenders received.”

Earlier this year, the Council, due to unforeseen circumstances and the need to ensure the highly sensitive natural environment at Ainsdale-On-Sea is protected, announced a delay to the works to deliver an off-beach car park.

As well as being a popular beach for visitors, Ainsdale on Sea is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation, which Sefton Council is committed to protecting.

After the Merseyside Environmental Advisory Service, and other consultees, informed the Council of concerns about the specialist survey of the site carried out by external consultants, the decision has been taken to delay this scheme while the Council reviews the vision for Ainsdale-On-Sea.

Following conversations with residents and community groups on the works at Ainsdale-on-Sea, the Council is looking to develop an updated vision for the coastal gateway in response to the feedback received.

A coordinated approach is being developed to inform investment decisions, with a focus on seasonal use, and future potential funding sources.

This work will look at all assets at the coastal gateway, including The Sands, Toad Hall, Council operational bases, and potential leisure, education, and recreational opportunities.

Maintenance work to Toad Hall will continue until September this year, with work being done to make the building structure safe and watertight.

And following market testing of The Sands, a number of expressions of interest were received. Discussions are ongoing with parties and will continue as part of the proposed review work going forward.

More details on this work and the outcomes will be shared when available.