Southport sets its sights on becoming a UNESCO City of Lifelong Learning

Southport has officially launched its bid to become a UNESCO City of Lifelong Learning, with plans to make learning accessible to everyone, no matter their age or background.

The Southport Learning Town team hosted a launch event at West Lancs Yacht Club, where local education providers, businesses and community leaders came together to hear more about the vision. Southport MP Patrick Hurley headlined the evening, offering his full support for the town’s ambition.

Unlike most UNESCO bids, this one is being led by the community rather than a public body – something organisers say will set Southport apart from the rest.

Alan Potter from Southport Learning Town explained that the goal is to embed lifelong learning as part of everyday life in the town. “It’s about sending a clear message – wherever you’re from, whatever age you are, you can start to learn, continue to learn, and be supported to learn.”

As part of the plans, the team is exploring properties on Lord Street to open a dedicated hub where people can access information about courses, workshops and education opportunities across the town.

The launch event kicked off a big weekend, followed by the first ever Southport Learning Festival at The Atkinson. Families enjoyed a day packed with creativity, history, science, art, magic and even bubbles and face painting.

Alan added some humour to his speech, referencing the Friday the 13th date of the launch: “We made sure to avoid any bad luck. There were no ladders, no broken mirrors, and the black cat was safely rehomed for the evening!”

He paid tribute to the committee and volunteers who’ve been working for the past eight to nine months to bring the idea to life. “We already have some fantastic education providers in Southport – from early years through to adult learning. We’re not starting from scratch, we’re building on something that’s already strong and vibrant.”

Support for the initiative is already coming in from all corners of the town – with backing from schools, early years providers, Edge Hill University, The Learning Rooms, Southport U3A, the Arts Society and more. Local businesses and the council are also on board.

A key part of the project will be the new central hub in Southport – a one-stop shop for learning, where residents can get signposted to what’s on, where to find it, and how to get involved.

There’s also ongoing support from Simon Joos, who leads the Manchester UNESCO Learning City, helping Southport shape its application. The hope is to submit within the next two years.

Looking ahead, the team behind Southport Learning Town wants the Learning Festival to grow and reach even more parts of the town – not just museums and theatres, but into pubs, cafes, care homes and schools too.

Because if the plans come together, learning in Southport won’t be something reserved for the classroom – it’ll be part of everyday life for everyone.

For more information, head to Southport Learning Town online.

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