Southport Pier has taken a step closer to reopening, as contractors arrive on site to begin pre-construction works for its £20m restoration.

The project, led by Sefton Council and carried out by AE Yates, aims to restore the landmark attraction, which has been closed since December 2022. Full works are expected to take up to 16 months, raising hopes the pier could welcome visitors again next year.

“Contractors are on Southport Pier this week carrying out pre-construction works which are required as part of the set up for the Pier’s refurbishment,” read a statement from Sefton Council. “The first task contractors will have is to assess the current condition of the existing paintwork on the structure’s columns.”

Officials warned further work may be needed depending on the findings, concluding: “If the condition is good it can be left as is, however if not we will also need to repaint the whole structure as part of the repair works.”