New dawn on the horizon for town
Southport Pleasureland has revealed plans for an exciting new Viking themed attraction that will be “nothing like anywhere in the UK”.
The firm has submitted plans to Sefton Council for a new Viking themed 18-hole adventure golf attraction with an associated ‘longhouse’ themed pub/eatery and parking.
Visitors will be able to enjoy an outdoor barbecue area in a circular format with a firepit in the centre of the building with terraced seating around a feature fire.
Southport Pleasureland owner Norman Wallis said: “We are keen to create an attraction that is very exciting, with a really good atmosphere, but that also has local relevance so that it is both fun and educational.
“It really is unique as there is nothing like this anywhere else in the UK, so we hope that it will help to attract more people to the local area to help the wider Southport, Sefton and Liverpool City Region economies.”
10. 157 new homes in Churchtown Thousands of people once worked at the former Philips Factory site in Crossens, building all types of goods at factories also including Vulcan, Mullards, Brockhouses and Dorman Smith.
The former factories are making way for dozens of new homes.
Contractors working for Elan Homes Ltd have been busy clearing the land during the pandemic ahead of building 157 two, three or four bedroom homes in addition to 6,000 square metres of new public open space. The first new homes are already under construction.
11. A new Sainsbury’s supermarket
A huge new Sainsbury’s supermarket and petrol station in Southport can now finally go ahead after being given the green light by the Government.
The investment will support over 200 jobs during construction of the 50,300 sq ft flagship store.
It will create up to 200 jobs including 30 full time positions and 130 part time roles in the store and meet the shopping needs of the community.
All works will be managed by the developer UBS, with Sainsbury’s commencing its store fit out in late 2021. The store is expected to open to customers by summer 2022.
Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s property director said: “Our development will inject investment into the local economy, regenerate the area, support hundreds of jobs and enhance retail choice in the community.”
12. Comedy In The Park
Comedy In The Park, an exciting all-day comedy extravaganza, will take place at Victoria Park in Southport on Saturday, July 17.
Newly announced Doctor Who companion John Bishop headlines the event with support from Katherine Ryan, Jason Manford, Al Murray, Paul Chowdhry and host Judi Love.
Home of world-class comedy, Comedy in the Park will feature spectacular stand-up stars and cuttingedge talent.
Operations director James Penny said: “With Comedy in the Park our aim is to bring live comedy back in a big way.
“You will be guaranteed a night of side-splitting laughter, with six of the world’s best comedians providing a night of entertainment in an open-air theatre style setting. We will turn Victoria Park into an incredible arena for the evening.
“Now more than ever, people need something to look forward to. It’s been a tough year for live comedy but it’s coming back with a bang!”
Visit: www.comedyinthepark. co.uk
13. Southport Town Deal
A decision is expected soon on the £50 million Southport Town Deal submission.
Top of the wishlist is a new waterside events centre to replace Southport Theatre and Convention Centre with the aim of attracting thousands of people into town and giving a huge boost to the local economy.
Also on the list is an immersive light and sound show in the Marine Lake, public realm improvements and infrastructure improvements to help Southport Pleasureland become an all-year round attraction.
14. Southport Comedy Festival
Every October, some of the world’s top comedians and a wealth of up and coming comedy talent visit Southport for three weeks of great comedy gigs.
They take place in venues around Southport, from small pubs to big theatres, with events for all ages.
The 2020 event was due to be held at Victoria Park but was called off at the 11th hour due to the fast rising second Covid wave.
The 2021 Southport Comedy Festival promises to be a real cause for celebration.
Visit: com
southportcomedyfestival.