A lack of progress on repairs to Southport Pier has caused “largely increased” insurance premiums, according to a Sefton Council document.
Just days ahead of the third anniversary of Southport Pier’s ‘temporary’ closing, a report to the Audit & Governance Committee has confirmed that the local authority is now being forced to pay significantly higher insurance premiums.
The report confirms: “a largely increased premium was imposed in relation to Southport Pier. Insurers were forced to gain costly support from Co-Insurers in this regard due to not having the appetite to insure in full given the lack of progress to date of remedial works being undertaken on the structure.”
Sefton Council were approached for comment ahead of publication.
While the size of the increase remains unconfirmed, OTS News understands that Sefton Council’s insurance premiums on Southport Pier have more than doubled.
Restoration of the Pier is set to begin in 2026, following confirmation from the government that a £20m pot from the Growth Mission Fund will be provided for repairs.
The Grade II listed structure, the second longest in Britain, stretches 3600 feet and encompasses breathtaking views of the town’s Marine Lake, Promenade and beach.
Initially the closure, from 13 December 2022, was a result of damage discovered after inclement weather, but further investigation revealed significant structural and safety issues.
In October Leader of Sefton Council, Cllr Marion Atkinson said: “The council is in the process of submitting a business case to the Department for Business and Trade with the expectation work will begin in early 2026.
“A two-stage design and build procurement process has already been completed, while listed building consent is also secured.
“The pier is a symbol of Southport’s identity, history and now, thanks to the council and central government, secured for the town’s future too.”