The redevelopment of Marine Lake has taken a step closer to becoming a reality.
Sefton Council has submitted a planning application for The Marine Lake Events Centre & Water and Light Show. Should the planning application be approved, The MLEC is expected to bring more than half a million visitors to Southport every year, while generating an annual £18 million for the local economy.
The submission made on Tuesday, July 6 follows a detailed public consultation process held by the council, which showed that 84% of residents and businesses in the resort are in favour of the MLEC being created. The new development will provide first-class theatre space, a conference and exhibition centre able to accommodate a wide range of events, and a café and signature restaurant, providing facilities for both visitors and the community alike.
READ MORE: £30m event centre set for further £2m investment from city region
The plans also include a new Water and Light show installation on the Marine Lake, with the working title of 'The Light Fantastic.' In May the council released images showing what the MLEC could look like after the £37.5 million redevelopment.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Labour Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said: “Feedback from our recent consultation showed that 84% of residents and key stakeholders are just as passionate about the Marine Lake Events Centre as we are.
"These exciting and innovative designs will help attract a diverse range of quality events to the town all year round. The public recognises our ambitions to boost Southport’s cultural offer and visitor economy, as well as ultimately to support local businesses and increase spending.
“Our plans for the Marine Lake Events Centre and Water & Light Show directly compliments the ongoing and continued investment Sefton Council makes toward improving the future of the town for our amazing communities and visitors.”
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