One of Merseyside's most iconic landmarks will cost an eyewatering amount to repair.
A report from the Sefton Council in May said that the Southport Pier was "rotting from within". In the same month, the council approved £206,053 of spending so the ‘Southport Pier Decking Project’ repair works can be undertaken.
Now the council has been advised to approve £3 million to complete the restoration. The pier will be replaced at the end of summer with work continuing throughout winter.
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The report said: "Southport Pier is a critical visitor attraction that holds significant importance to Sefton’s economy and brand. It is also a Grade-II listed structure.
"As part of the routine maintenance, it became apparent the pier decking was starting to fail in isolated areas, therefore several detailed inspections from timber experts have taken place. Their commendation is now to replace the entire decking after the 2022 summer season from October 2022 with most works taking place in the winter to ensure the Pier is fit for purpose, remains safe, and continues to be a critical historic asset for Sefton."
In 2000 the pier underwent major refurbishment at the cost of £2 million but after completion defects appeared including widespread paint failures and corrosion. Now the Grade II listed pier which opened in 1860 will have to undergo a second major restoration in 22 years.
The report said: "Cabinet recommends to Council:(3) to approve a £3m supplementary capital estimate to enable the scheme to be included within the Council’s Capital Programme. This will be financed by prudential borrowing.
"The annual cost of this borrowing of £0.178m be noted and it be agreed that this is added as a growth item to the council’s medium-term financial plan and as such will be funded as part of the 2023/24 budget plan."
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