Improvements to the footpaths on the eastern side of Southport’s King Street and the northern side on Market Street are nearing completion. This means pedestrians now have access to both sides them. By the end of June, the majority of fencing will be taken away leaving a great new outdoor space for people to enjoy over the summer months. Permanent planting of trees and plants will be done in the Autumn planting season.

Les Transformations de Southport

The work is part of the Les Transformations de Southport, which will support the town’s businesses by increasing footfall between all areas of Southport town centre. It resulted from people saying they wanted it to be easier and more pleasant to walk, wheel, cycle, and spend time in the town.

The scheme will significantly improve the appearance of these streets, with wider pavements. new outdoor seating, new tree planting, rainwater gardens, and reduced traffic, This will make this area much nicer and more attractive for people to use when the scheme is completed, which will be good for local businesses.

Progress

Work on Les Transformations de Southport is currently running as planned, and is scheduled to finish in Autumn 2025 as planned. 

Eastbank Street upcoming works

Works to be completed on the Chapel Street side include the installation of lighting columns, excavating tree pits, and adding new kerb lines and paving and is expected to be finished by the end of June.

Pedestrian access will be maintained along the buildings and works through Sharrock Street and Chapel street will be coordinated with local businesses regarding deliveries to minimise disruption. 

The next stage will be to start the excavation for drainage pipework and permeable paving on the King Street Side. 

King Street upcoming works

The eastern footpath (market side) is 80% complete and Pedestrians have access on both sides of the market. 

Ongoing works include the installation of new kerb lines and work on the foundation for the carriageway which will be one-way for all traffic.

The new permeable paving and drainage is being installed, and soil is being added to the new rain gardens and removing and installing new lighting columns. 

From June

The King Street-Market Street junction starts in June. The works will be completed in a phased approach to maintain traffic flow. Works will include removing of existing surfacing on the north east corner and excavation for new drainage. 

Some disruption

Unfortunately, the scale of works being undertaken cannot be delivered without some disruption.

However, Sefton Council and its contractor have worked with local businesses to phase the works so that their customers have access throughout the work.

As a result, much of the pedestrian and new outdoor seating areas will be completed and available for use in the main summer season.  

Walkways

Phasing does mean pedestrian walkways are subject to change as works progress. But access will be maintained at all times. Any changes will be communicated directly to the affected businesses and through signage on-site.

Phasing of works

The works has been done in phases, which involves working on different areas of the project simultaneously. This method allows the project to be completed more efficiently and reduce time spent working in a particular area and minimise disruption. 

By managing multiple areas at the same time, we have minimised the amount of time the contractors will be on site, and impact is kept to a minimum. 

Market Street pedestrianised

Market Street will be fully pedestrianised. The Traffic Regulation Order has had no objections and will be in place when works are complete. This initiative will provide a more pleasant and safer environment for pedestrians and contribute positively to the local community. 

On Schedule

The works are currently running as planned and are on schedule to finish in Autumn 2025.

To keep up to date with changes as works progress, a newsletter and phasing plan is being shared with businesses and on our website under Latest Updates.