Sefton Council extends deadline for public consultation on visitor economy strategy

Sefton Council has extended the deadline for its public consultation into the future of tourism across the borough, allowing more time for residents and businesses to share their views.

As part of its efforts to develop a comprehensive, long-term Visitor Economy Strategy, the local authority is encouraging widespread participation in two digital surveys, now open until Friday 9 May 2025.

The updated strategy aims to respond to the evolving landscape of tourism in the UK, particularly within coastal destinations such as Sefton. The plan will cover the entire borough and reflect its distinctive tourism offer — from the world-renowned ‘Another Place’ Iron Men sculptures in Crosby, to the vibrant shopping and leisure experience of Southport.

Sefton Council’s ten-year vision is to ensure its visitor economy remains sustainable, competitive, and inclusive. To achieve this, the Council is seeking input from the local community to identify the experiences, attractions, and challenges that matter most.

Two online surveys — one for residents and another for businesses — are available to complete:

• Resident survey: Click here to complete
• Business survey: Click here to complete

Each survey takes approximately five to ten minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous.

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, said:

“We want to hear about the experiences you feel are important to Sefton’s tourism offer, as well as the places you enjoy visiting with your friends and family, and why they are special to you.

“Our businesses have a unique understanding of what is good for their growth and what challenges they are being faced with. We’re keen to understand how reliant businesses are on tourism and what different visitor markets are important to them.”

Residents or businesses requiring a paper copy of the survey can contact tourism@sefton.gov.uk for more information.

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