Generations of day trippers to Southport have got off the train at the town’s station and walked through the shopping mall that is a gateway to Chapel Street – now the mall is to get a major facelift. Tony McDonough reports
A major project to repair and refurbish the covered mall linking Southport Station with Chapel Street is under way.
Generations of day trippers to Southport have got off the train at the town’s station and walked through the shopping mall that is a gateway to Chapel Street. This latest revamp will be completed by July 10 – in time for the Open Golf Championship at Royal Birkdale.
This project will focus on improving the overall appearance, functionality and experience of the mall, which forms a key pedestrian gateway between Southport’s transport hub and its principal shopping street.
The investment reflects a shared commitment to supporting Southport’s town centre economy and improving connectivity for residents, commuters and visitors alike. During the construction period, some temporary disruption is expected, however:
- Pedestrian access through the station approach will remain open at all times.
- All shops and businesses in and around the site will continue to be accessible.
- Works will be carefully planned and phased to minimise inconvenience.
Signage and information will be in place throughout the works to help guide customers and visitors safely through the area.
A spokesperson for the project said: “Station Approach is a vital link between Southport Station and Chapel Street, and this project represents an important investment in the town’s future.
“By working closely with Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, we are delivering investment that will benefit local businesses while ensuring Southport is ready to welcome visitors ahead of the Open Championship this summer.”
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The first phase of works is scheduled to conclude in July, with further updates to be shared as the project progresses.
Liverpool city region is home to two of golf’s most famous Open Championship venues – Royal Liverpool and Royal Birkdale – with the tournament returning to Birkdale this summer.
Royal Liverpool in Hoylake hosted the event – the sport’s biggest – in 2023 with 260,000 spectators in attendance and an estimated £187m generated for the city region economy. Those figures may go even higher this year.