Enjoy a living history lesson on Lord Street in Southport

Shoppers along Southport’s famous boulevard are being given a fantastic history lesson as they pass the iconic Grade II listed 509-515 Lord Street building, which is currently undergoing a huge restoration project.

Contractors have recently fitted Information Boards describing the background to this ambitious scheme which is part of the wider Southport Townscape Heritage Project.

Council Officers have developed the Boards which have been put together following meticulous research of the building’s history by looking through dusty old files and documents at various libraries.

Cllr Daren Veidman, Sefton Council's Cabinet Member for Planning and Building Control, said: "It’s really interesting to watch the re-development of this iconic building and I am delighted that we have these Information Boards.

“What we wanted is a clear way to tell the incredible story behind the journey this building has gone on, welcoming in a brand new chapter in the history of Lord Street.”

The £1m renovation, which is taking place thanks to a significant grant contribution from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will see the building's heritage features restored as well as nine high specification apartments and two ground floor retail units being brought back into use.

Paul Halsall of building owners, Lord Street Developments, added: “The Information Boards have really caught the attention of passers-by and they do make a good read, especially with the images of old posters and flyers relating to former occupiers, you can really become immersed in the history of the building”.

"This high-quality refurbishment due for completion next Spring sets a high standard for subsequent design in Southport town centre and will provide nine self-contained apartments in addition to high quality retail space in the twin shops”.

For further information about the Southport Townscape Heritage project, to follow progress on individual buildings and to learn more about further grant opportunities, take a look at the Southport Townscape Heritage project Facebook page or the dedicated www.southporttownscape.org.uk website.

You can also follow updates via Twitter on @SouthportTHP

Picture: Chris Finch, Rosslee Construction Ltd, Paul Halsall, (Lord Street Developments) Alice Nottingham (SMBC) Alf Plant (Ainsley Gommon architects)