Work will begin to start to restore one of Southport’s iconic arcades which has ended up “like a scene out of Final Destination.”
Significant work to improve and restore Southport’s Cambridge Arcade is set to begin in 2023 according to Sefton Council. Last year, the arcade was described by one business tenant as “like a scene out of Final Destination where you think you might get stabbed by a pane of glass” due to the state of dilapidation of its canopy roof.
CEO of Southport Business Improvement District (BID) Rachel Fitzgerald also said at the time that amidst the millions being invested in the town, the Grade II listed Cambridge Arcade was being “left behind.”
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In response, Sefton Council described the arcade as a “key site” but spoke of challenges with renovation due to a privately owned neighbouring building which is impacting on the condition of the arcade’s roof.
Now the council has announced work be done to repair the roof, starting at the Lord Street end of the canopy, with Bernard Taylor Partnership Architects being appointed for the project.
Works will include replacing the glass, installing a new drainage system and adding pigeon control measures.
This is part of the phase one of a scheme of works to repair and refurbish the arcade canopy with a further phase at the Chapel street end due to take place later in the year.
According to a statement released by Sefton Council, traders have met with the council’s property and building services department, who are taking on board feedback given.
The statement adds: “This is the latest in a series of engagement opportunities between the local authority and town centre businesses directly impacted to ensure any works cause as little disruption as possible to their trade.”
Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, Regulation and Compliance, Cllr Paulette Lappin, said: the arcade is a “fantastic asset” for Southport.
Cllr Lappin added: “Like many well-used historic locations, it is in need of some refurbishments.
“The Arcade’s canopy is the focus of our initial attention, and we will be undertaking significant works to address issues such as leaks and damaged glazing.”
Cllr Lappin said the council has made numerous attempts to speak to the owners of the neighbouring former British Homes Stores, which is in a state of “deterioration” with hopes a meeting will take place soon “in an attempt to progress the proposed restoration works which were granted planning permission earlier in the year.”
Cllr Lappin added: “In any event, officers will continue to monitor the situation as it develops.”
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