Exciting proposals have been revealed to transform Southport beach into a "world-class" surf destination complete with a luxury hotel, spa, restaurant and cafes.
The £40m project would include a 250m stretch of beach using the next generation of surf pool technology and a 360-degree boardwalk.
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, proposals for 'Southport Cove' have been revealed by Sefton Council and Go Surf, and will make waves that can reach over 2m, as well as shorter ones for less experienced surfers.
There will also be planted gardens so that non-water users can take in the pool’s surrounding landscape.
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, Cllr Marion Atkinson, said: “Many people remember the much-loved open-air swimming bath on the seafront next to Princes Park closed its doors to the public for the very last time in 1989.
“This project will bring back a viable facility, striking a balance between the memory of this well-loved former attraction and a new, modern, family-oriented offer that will be unique to the region.”
Southport Cove, the local authority says, will create up to 120 new jobs and bring more than £20 million per annum to the local economy with an expected 150,000 client visits a year.
The £40m project aligns well with Sefton Council’s vision for Southport’s visitor economy, increasing the number of reasons to visit and to stay, all year round.
A spokesman for the founders of Go Surf said: “We’re taking a world class surf pool and building a resort around it that’s far more than just a place for catching waves, something that all visitors and members can enjoy on any given day of the year.
“It’s a real privilege to have this opportunity to do something great for our hometown, we are thrilled to be bringing our unique brand of water-based sport to Southport.”
