Sefton Council has welcomed the approval of its business case to the Government’s Growth Mission Fund, unlocking £20 million to repair, restore and reopen Southport Pier.

Confirmed this week by the Growth Mission Fund panel, the decision means major works to restore the iconic Grade II listed structure can now get underway.

Southport Pier, which has been closed since December 2022 on health and safety grounds, will undergo a comprehensive restoration programme that goes far beyond the original decking replacement plans approved three years ago.

Sefton’s successful funding bid follows extensive planning, structural assessments and public safety measures undertaken by the Council over the past two years.

A detailed business case was submitted to the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), setting out the full scope of repairs, long-term maintenance needs and sustainability measures required to secure the pier for future generations.

Restoration Work Will Include:

• Full replacement of decking boards and timber joists
• Extensive steelwork repairs and replacements due to corrosion
• Installation of new gates and CCTV
• Introduction of a robust long-term maintenance regime

Listed building consent is already in place, and the two‑stage design and build procurement process has been completed, allowing works to begin swiftly.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:
“Today’s approval from the Growth Mission Fund panel is fantastic news for Southport, our residents and the millions of visitors who love our pier.

“We have worked tirelessly to make the strongest possible case for this investment, and I am delighted that Government recognises both the importance of Southport Pier and the urgency of its restoration.

“As I have said many times, we were ready to begin works the moment funding was confirmed—and now we can. This is a vital milestone in safeguarding one of our most cherished heritage assets.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: 

“My economic plan to build a stronger and more secure economy is the right one – cutting the cost of living, cutting the national debt, and creating the conditions for growth through investment. 

“Backing Southport with £20 million to restore its iconic pier to its former glory is part of this plan. Today, that money has been delivered, and once reopened, it will make the area a more attractive place to live, work, visit and start a business.” 

Minister for Investment Lord Stockwood said:
“Backed by £20 million from the Growth Mission Fund, this restoration will allow Sefton Council to return Southport Pier to its place as a defining coastal landmark. We look forward to supporting the council as it takes this important work forward.

“This investment supports our Industrial Strategy by driving local regeneration, strengthening the visitor economy, and creating the foundations for long‑term growth and pride within the community.”

Cllr Atkinson added:
“Our business case sets out not only the current construction costs but also a long-term plan for maintaining the pier.

“We have never given up on Southport Pier. It is a symbol of our town’s identity and heritage, and this funding secures its future for generations to come.”

The Council has worked closely with Historic England, the Southport Pier Trust and the Pier Society to ensure the restoration respects the structure’s historic character and significance.

Southport pier stretches 3,600 feet across the town’s seafront and remains the second longest pier in Britain.

With funding now secured, preparations will begin immediately to finalise the construction programme so that work can get underway as soon as possible.

For more information on Southport Pier, visit www.sefton.gov.uk/southportpier