Sefton Council proposes ‘nature-led regneration’ of Ainsdale that both accommodates visitors to the beauty spot and protects the natural environment – but it’s the end of the road for Toad Hall. Tony McDonough reports
In a new proposal for the regeneration of one of its most popular coastal destinations Sefton Council is looking to balance the demands of its visitor economy with nature.
Ainsdale beach and its dunes have been a popular summer destination for people from across Liverpool city region and beyond for decades. The council wants that to continue but also wants to protect the area’s natural environment and wildlife.
On Friday it unveiled a new vision for the future of the gateway to the coast at Ainsdale, following previous consultation exercises with residents and stakeholders.
These proposals place Ainsdale’s internationally significant dune systems, rare wildlife and seascape “at the heart of its regeneration”. Sefton is committed to maintaining and enhancing the formally protected habitats that make Ainsdale internationally significant.
One key recommendation is the demolition of Toad Hall, which has been deemed structurally unsafe and beyond any viable restoration. Independent surveys – carried out via drone have confirmed its severe state of disrepair.
In the short term, the demolition of Toad Hall would create space for new surface car parking. In the longer term, the site is earmarked for the development of a purpose-built visitor centre and public space.
And the council is close to agreeing the disposal of The Sands, following the ongoing marketing exercise aimed at securing best value for the asset but also securing a partner to deliver transformation of the asset in a manner aligned to this vision.
Proposals would include a new hospitality and visitor accommodation offering, with improved links to Sands Lake, and enhancements including upgraded boardwalks and better signage.
In the longer term there are ambitions for a new purpose-built visitor centre as well as the aspiration to transform the Shore Road and Coastal Road gateway with safer crossings, new public art and improved signage.
The former Pontins site is integral to the delivery of this vision, and the council is in ongoing discussions with the leaseholder of the site regarding the future of the holiday park site.
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Cllr Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said: “These regeneration plans are about creating a sustainable future for Ainsdale that celebrates its unique natural environment while delivering world-class facilities for visitors and opportunities for our communities.
“A vision for Nature-Led Regeneration and a world-class offering is intended to reflect the feedback of residents and visitors over recent years.
“There is much to do over the coming years, but in the short-term we have opportunities to make immediate improvements. Toad Hall has sadly reached a state of disrepair that makes restoration unfeasible.
“These are exciting first steps towards making Ainsdale a flagship destination for nature-led tourism and regeneration.”