Work on the transformation of a former Victorian market in Merseyside is now complete and the facility will welcome customers for the first time this week. Tony McDonough reports
Southport Market will officially reopen this week following its £1.4m transformation into a food and drink venue.
At 10am on Thursday, July 22, the 10 confirmed traders, as well as a feature bar and drinks space, will see the doors open for the first time. It follows months of planning and refurbishment works and forms a key aspect of Sefton’s recovery plan for the town.
It will also offer a flexible events area able to host high-quality pop-up markets along with other events.The full list of confirmed traders is:
- Blackhurst Butchers
- 600 degrees (Pizzas, Italian)
- Hector’s Mexicana (Mexican street food)
- Pacific By Vincent (Pacific Rim inspired foods)
- Down and Oot (Canadian steaks, poutine, hot sandwiches)
- King St. Bakery (Portuguese tarts)
- Messy Moments (Desserts)
- Birkdale Pie & Mash (Assorted pies)
- Allotment – (American Burgers et al)
- Pitamu (Greek & Mediterranean)
A feature bar, described as the centrepiece of the new Southport Market crown, will be managed by the Mikhail Leisure group, famous for the successful Bold Hotel, Punch Tarmey’s and much more.
Andrew Mikhail, owner of The Mikhail group, said: “Yet again, the great team at Sefton Council have had fabulous vision with their regeneration plans for the market. Not only creating jobs for locals but I am certain that this will bring people from far and wide to Southport.”
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Cllr Ian Maher, Leader of Sefton Council, added: “We are delighted to see all the hard work of our tourism team and partners coming to fruition and to be able to complete this project on time and to such an incredible standard is a testament to our commitment to Southport and Sefton.
“Every single trader comes to the market with a passion and desire to ensure this project is a success and we are confident this will be one of the North West’s best food and drink gems.
“We look forward to working with our traders and stall holders at what is an iconic location in the heart of Southport and, most importantly, welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy the space we have worked so hard to create.”
The Southport Market project has been led by Sefton Council and partners, supported by funding from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Southport Town Deal.