Beach boost thanks to car park charges
FACILITIES at Southport and Ainsdale beaches will be improved and cleaning regimes upgraded as the council reinvests its controversial parking fee rises.
Sefton Council will carry out improvements to boost safety and make the beach more attractive to visitors through a raft of changes.
Included in the plans are improvements to on-site facilities such as toilets as well as new signage and flags, while entrances will be made wider in order to reduce queuing times.
In another change, rangers will patrol the beach until 8.30pm during peak times.
Vehicles will be prevented from accessing the beach after that time though, in an effort to restrict antisocial behaviour and prevent dangerous driving, with the beaches currently known as locations for dangerous stunts and racing.
A new fee has been introduced to discourage people from driving out of the demarcated car park areas, due to the costs incurred by rescuing stranded vehicles and the damage they can cause.
The council is also planning to launch a consultation on the future of Ainsdale coast, which it refers to as the ‘Ainsdale on Sea Gateway, to gain the public’s insight on how to make the most of the coastline.
The investments will be funded by new parking charges, which will increase by 33% compared to last year. Day charges for parking will rise to £6, or £4 after 4pm, and season tickets will now cost £60.
But those living in Sefton can claim a half price season ticket, while discounts will also be available for those dribing electric or hybrid cars.
Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “During peak periods our beaches attract a lot of visitors, so measures to alleviate queueing traffic will be of significant benefit to both residents and beach users alike.
“The increase in resources and improvement of facilities will enhance the visitor experience for everyone and also provide a safer environment to enjoy theses fantastic assets, whilst helping protect our special wildlife and landscape, within our borough.
“I am particularly pleased the Council will be able to offer a favourable car parking rate for Sefton residents, and electric and hybrid car drivers, encouraging people to enjoy these special sites, and for people to think about their carbon footprint.”