A new future for the Pontins holiday park in Southport could be in sight.
Sefton Council says it wants to see a “world-class visitor destination with high-quality accommodation” on the site.
It is part of the local authority’s long-term vision for the Ainsdale Gateway site, which also includes a new visitor centre, a new hospitality venture at The Sands Pub site, and the demolition of Toad Hall.
The Pontins site is integral to the delivery of this vision, and Sefton Council says it is engaged in ongoing discussions with the leaseholder of the site regarding its future.
The vision outlines the scale of ambition that the council, residents and visitors alike share for “a world-class visitor destination with high-quality accommodation”.
Sefton Council says it is “committed to progressing these discussions, and the transformation of the site that is required, at pace”.
Pontins holiday park in Ainsdale has been closed since 3rd January 2024 with lots of speculation since then about the future of the land.
When the Southport site closed, owners Britannia announced: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Pontins Southport Holiday Park.
“After assessing the future viability of the park, we have come to the difficult decision to close our doors. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
The firm also shuttered its Pontins Prestatyn and Pontins Camber Sands parks in a bid to reduce expenses.
Britannia also owns the Royal Clifton Hotel, The Prince Of Wales Hotel and The Scarisbrick Hotel in Southport.
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:
‘’These regeneration plans are about creating a sustainable future for Ainsdale that celebrates its unique natural environment while delivering world-class facilities for visitors and opportunities for our communities.
“A vision for Nature-Led Regeneration and a world-class offering is intended to reflect the feedback of residents and visitors over recent years.
“Engagement with the leaseholder regarding the Pontins site is a priority to enable fulfilment of this vision, and we look forward to continued dialogue with them in this respect.
“These are exciting first steps towards making Ainsdale a flagship destination for nature-led tourism and regeneration.”
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