Contractors build large barricade across Southport Pier.

Contractors working for Sefton Council have built a large wooden barricade this morning (11th January) across the whole width of Southport Pier.

This is in addition to the wire mesh fencing blocking all the other entrances to the Pier.

One of the contractors building it said that they were just building the barricade and the decking replacement was nothing to do with them. He would not speculate on how long the Pier is going to be closed.

The Council issued a statement yesterday.

“We would like to thank everyone for their patience while we work hard to ensure Southport Pier is safe to reopen.

“Recent extreme cold weather has exacerbated existing damage to the Pier timber decking and we have taken the advice of independent structural engineers to temporarily close the attraction until repairs can be made.

“Extensive surveys will be taking place over the coming weeks and they will allow us to progress with all necessary works.

“Sefton Council had already earmarked over £3 million for full refurbishment of the 160-year-old Pier’s decking, which had been showing signs of deterioration prior to the cold snap.

“Once an independent structural engineer confirms it is safe to do so, Sefton Councill will reopen the Pier.

“Further updates will be provided in due course.”