The former Rueters bar and grill building in Southport town centre could be demolished to make way for a new car park.
The new 23 space car park, at 26 Hoghton Street, would provide parking spaces for shoppers, customers and theatre-goers which were lost when they were replaced by new cycle lanes in 2020.
Rueters announced its closure on Sunday 29th May 2022 as award-winning operator Matt Howard, who was previously awarded the Publican of the Year title by Punch Pubs, paid tribute to his “amazing team”.
Matt blamed the rising costs facing the hospitality industry for Rueters’ closure two years ago.
Since then, the building has fallen into increasing disrepair with a lack of interest to find a new operator to take over the premises.
Bella Homes now wants to breathe new life into the site by creating much-needed parking facilities in the area.
A spokesperson for Bella Homes said: “The pedestrianised areas in the centre of Southport town centre and expansion of cycle lanes are great for people on foot or on bicycles.
“But those who have no option but to travel into town by car have, as a result, been penalised and have fewer options for where they can park safely.
The former Rueters Bar and Grill site at 26 Hoghton Street in Soiuthport town centre. Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
“Roads formerly offering an abundance of on-street parking have been lost to the expansion of the pedestrian and cycle areas and as a result have restricted the options to car users.
“The pedestrianised areas are designed to restrict traffic in the town centre, but with many shoppers travelling into town from further away than they can walk, the need for designated off-road parking is still greatly needed and sadly lacking.
“The former Reuters bar on Houghton Street has sat vacant for two years.
The former Rueters Bar and Grill site at 26 Hoghton Street in Soiuthport town centre. Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
“After falling into disrepair and with lack of offers for anyone wanting to rejuvenate the venue as a bar / eatery, plans have now been submitted to utilise the space to create a secure off-road car park, within a short stroll of Southport town centre.
“The proposed plans, now visible on Sefton Councils planning portal, show a car park offering 23 spaces.
“With nearby businesses already expressing an interest in securing spaces on the site, it is clear that the demand is there for such a site, both for those working in the town centre as well as shoppers.”
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