How a Merseyside town could be transformed in the next 12 months

Published date28 November 2021
Publication titleLiverpool Echo: Web Edition Articles (England)
Southport Pleasureland owner Norman Wallis is one person who has had a massive impact on the area as he looks to increase the reasons people will be travelling to the coastal town.

A new 35m tall rollercoaster is set to be installed along Marine Drive between Ocean Plaza and Esplanade as part of Pleasureland, as well as the installation of a new observation wheel next to Marine Lake which has started to take shape.

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There is also set to be a new adventure golf site and a brand new terminal and cafe for the miniature railway, also part of Norman Wallis's plans to rejuvenate tourism in the town.

Along with the news that came earlier this year about the Grand Casino on Lord Street being bought by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group, and the recent application to transform the former BHS building on Chapel Street.

New 260m long rollercoaster

Southport is set for a new 260m rollercoaster after plans were approved earlier this month.

The rollercoaster falls in line with the "Local Plan" for the area, as well as giving a potential boost to tourism.

In a report published by Sefton Council, they said with regards to the Local Plan: "This states that the redevelopment of this site must significantly enhance the regional leisure and tourism role of Southport.

"While this application does not seek a major visitor-based development throughout this site it is clear that what is being proposed will add to the offer at Pleasureland that will enhance the tourism role of Southport."

The report published by Sefton Council said ahead of the planning approval: "As the proposal represents an appropriate use of the land and would not cause harm to the character of the area or neighbouring ecological sites, subject to a condition, it is considered that the application complies with the aims and objectives of the Local Plan and all other material considerations. It is therefore recommended that this application is granted consent with the conditions that follow."

The plans have been drawn up by local firm RAL Architects.

In their submission, they said: “The proposed plot is an underused area of Southport Pleasureland and will provide a significant new attraction for the amusement park."

Massive ferris wheel next to Marine Lake

An observation wheel is currently being built next to Marine Lake.

The wheel will overlook the lake and provide stunning views of both the town centre and the beach.

The wheel is...

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