By Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
Proposals to restore and reopen Southport Pier have been submitted.
The planning application, submitted by Sefton Council’s Tourism team and local firm RAL Architects, includes features for what will be “a comprehensive project aimed at enhancing its structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance”.
A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “We can confirm that following an intensive survey and design period, we have applied for Listed Building Consent for the future refurbishment works needed to re-open Southport Pier.
“By making this submission it enables Sefton Council and the Southport Pier team to have all necessary approvals in place for when funding is identified, allowing for works to commence quickly and efficiently.”
Southport Pier has been closed since December 2022 in a blow to the local economy.
Sefton Council has repeatedly announced its determination to work towards opening the landmark Victorian structure, with estimates that £13 funding would be needed to fund the repairs.
The 164-year-old Southport Pier is the second longest pier in the country.
Opened in 1860, it was designed by James Brunlees, a prominent civil engineer of the Victorian era.
The pier originally stretched 3,600 feet (1,100 meters) into the Irish Sea, providing a vital link for steamboats and facilitating tourism in the burgeoning seaside resort.
Sefton Council’s Tourism team and RAL Architects have submitted a full planning application seeking Listed Building Consent for the replacement and repair works to deck and supporting steelwork including refurbishment and reinstatement of handrails and seating pavilions to Southport Pier.
In the document, they said: “Until recently, Southport Pier stood as a testament to Victorian engineering and a symbol of the town’s heritage.
“It offered visitors a blend of historical charm and modern attractions, including a visitor centre, café, and panoramic views of the coastline.
“The pier closed in December 2022 for essential maintenance following structural failings of the decking, it continues to be a cherished landmark, celebrating its historical legacy while with Sefton’s Council’s commitment and vision it will return as a vibrant hub for leisure and tourism.”
Within the refurbishment works there is the opportunity to re-design some elements in order to improve the longevity of the structure. These include:
- Equalising the cantilever to maintain the pier width and standardise truss design.
- Structural connection of railings to main structure to simplify future repairs and re-decking.
- Introduction of a minimum thickness of steel elements to provide prolonged structural integrity following loss of steels protective coating which is rapid due to coastal environmental conditions.
- Structural design to minimise crevices which have been the primary sites of corrosion.
- Galvanised Steel to provide a layer of corrosion protection.
- Improved factory prepared painted protection, Galvacoat, International 954 or similar approved.
- Separation of material for avoidance of moisture retention using decking tape/ felt strips and bearing material which are sites of secondary corrosion.
- Timber deck boards increased to 35mm x 100mm Ekki Boards, planed all round with radiuses edges.
- Timber Joist treatment with improved longevity. 75mm x 200mm SC24. 10. Replacement of the southern handrail to reflect the northern handrail detail.
The document says: “ This Design and Access Statement (DAS) clearly communicates the vision, objectives, and design principles guiding the refurbishment.
“This includes preserving the historical integrity of the pier while introducing modern methods of construction to re-open the pier with improved longevity for the benefit of the local community.
“The DAS describes the sustainable practices incorporated into the refurbishment.
“This includes a proactive maintenance strategy and design strategies for minimising environmental impact through longevity of materials.
“It may also cover how the project addresses environmental concerns, such as the preservation of local wildlife habitats and coastal ecosystems.
“The restoration of Southport Pier is a comprehensive project aimed at enhancing its structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance.
“The restoration plan includes several key components, each designed to address specific issues identified in the current structure. By addressing both current issues and potential future concerns, the project aims to preserve this historic structure for years to come.”
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