The majority of fencing on Market Street in Southport is due to be taken down by the end of June, with both dies of the footpaths now 90% complete.
It means shoppers and diners should be able to enjoy this brand new pedestrianised space this summer.
The space is part of the Market Quarter area which is being improved in a multi-million pound transformation designed to attract more visitors and new businesses into the area.
The scheme, led by Sefton Council and being carried out by Balfour Beatty, will see the pedestrianisation of part of Market Street; King Street being made one way with wider pavements; and wider pavements and three new crossing points on Eastbank Street.
It is part of the ‘Les Transformations de Southport’ initiative to create better quality public realm in Southport town centre.
All the local independent shops, cafes and other businesses in the area remain open while the work is taking place.
The Market Quarter redevelopment is on track to be complete this autumn.
A Balfour Beatty spokesperson said:
“Both sides of footpaths are now 90% complete on Market Street with works ongoing to the carriageway section.
“We are pleased to announce that by the end of June, the majority of fencing to Market Street will be taken away leaving the new outdoor space for the shops and Southport Market.
“We hope this will encourage people to use the outdoor space throughout the summer months although we will have to return to the area to carry out some remaining works and to install the planting during the planting season.
“In line with our plans, we are excited to announce that Market Street will be fully pedestrianised.
“The Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) necessary for the pedestrianisation of Market Street is progressing well. This initiative will provide a more pleasant and safer environment for pedestrians and contribute positively to the local community.
“We understand that businesses on Market Street may have questions regarding loading and logistics. To address these concerns, we will be writing separately to businesses in the area to discuss alternative loading arrangements.
“Our team is dedicated to finding solutions that mitigate any inconvenience and support local businesses during this transition. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we work towards enhancing the area for everyone.
“We are pleased to confirm that we are adhering to our planned programme of works and do not anticipate any delays and are scheduled to finish by November as planned.”
Works to the north side of Eastbank street (Chapel Street side) will include the removal of existing kerbs and footpath paving, and the installation of four new tree pit crates.
All works on this footpath are expected to be finished by the end of June.
The footpath on the Market side of King Street is 80% complete and pedestrian routes are currently available on both sides of the street.
The vision for the Les Transformations project is to create accessible, well connected and high-quality public spaces, improving footfall between all areas of Southport town centre.
This will support businesses in attracting and retaining customers, improve the health and wellbeing of communities, encourage people to stay longer or return more frequently and reinforce the vision for the town.
if you have any questions about the works please contact: LTDS.Queries@balfourbeatty.com
The Market Quarter area has been a regeneration success story since Sefton Council’s £1.4 million conversion of Southport Market in 2021 into a vibrant new food, drink and events venue.
The investment in the market has led to the opening and expansion of a number of new independent local businesses nearby including Season Coffee, Bar and Kitchen; Southport Market Blinds; Eva’s Sewing Room; The Cake Box; The Plant Room and more.
April 2024 also saw the opening of the expanded Quicksilver Music.
The work to improve roads around Southport Market aims to attract more new businesses to the area and make it a more pleasant environment for visitors.
A recent report by Sefton Council said: “The provision of infrastructure to underpin economic growth was one of the three themes of the Town Investment Plan for Southport and this project provides the transport and public realm infrastructure needed to support the ambition of the Town Fund and the changing patterns of travel demand and movement around the town.
“The main aim is to provide more public space and restrict traffic, so that more people can enjoy the market and its surroundings, creating opportunities for new and existing businesses to develop and expand in that area.”
Les Transformations de Southport is one of the major schemes of Southport Town Deal, which is currently supporting the construction of the new £73 million Marine Lake Events Centre on the site of the former Southport Theatre.
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