Sefton Council has released images showing the extent of damage to Southport Pier

Sefton Council says images released from exploratory works taking place on Southport Pier have once again reaffirmed the decision to temporarily close the structure.

Extensive exploratory and invasive investigative works are currently taking place on the iconic Southport Pier to assess what needs to be done to safely reopen it.

Sefton Council have published sobering images provided by contractor A E Yates which show significant holes and erosion in the Pier’s steelwork as well as the damage to the decking boards.

The exploratory works are taking place in stages and are progressing on schedule at Southport Pier as Sefton Council continues to seek a long term funding solution for the capital works and ongoing maintenance required.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said:

“If there is anyone out there who still believes the Pier should not currently be closed then these images will make them think again.

“Our contractors A E Yates have been superb in carrying out these exploratory works and without them extensively removing the decking boards, we would not be able to see the shocking level of damage to the steelwork.

“As everyone can see this is by no means a small task and I want to thank A E Yates for their work so far. It gives us an even better understanding of the current structural integrity of the Pier.

“Sadly, owing to poor workmanship commissioned in 2000, work that should have lasted up to 30 years for timber and longer for the steel work was sub-standard and we inherited a structure that was flawed. These pictures clearly show that.

“As we all know you can patch up a car or a house with temporary repairs and fixes, but if the structure you’re maintaining is flawed, you are going to need some major work and that’s the point we have reached

“As custodians of this iconic structure, Sefton Council has reiterated its complete support towards the full refurbishment of Southport Pier.

“However, the Council simply does not have the budgets required to fulfil these works without help, and we strongly believe that a nationally significant heritage asset such as this should have national funding allocated for both the project and the ongoing maintenance thereafter.”

In order to address this significant funding gap, the Council is continuing to progress engagement on an ongoing basis with potential funders and stakeholders.