Traders on Market Street in Southport have praised the recently pedestrianised thoroughfare, describing it as 'lovely', but are calling for more signage to draw shoppers to the area. The transformation is part of Sefton Council's Les Transformations de Southport project, which began in January 2025 and cost £6.5 million.
Market Street now pedestrianised
The scheme, completed in winter, has seen Market Street pedestrianised and King Street made one-way, with widened footpaths, benches, and planters. The aim is to boost Southport's visitor economy and encourage footfall between different parts of the town, particularly the market quarter.
With summer approaching, the Local Democracy Reporting Service spoke to local business owners to gauge the impact.
Positive feedback from traders
Lauren Wickham, owner of The Cake Box for five years, said the monthly artisan market has definitely helped. 'On the first weekend, I sold out of everything. The street is now a nice open space, brighter and more attractive. Before, people parked but didn't come into the shops; now they do. I'm always really busy.'
Tracy Jones of The Plant Room noted that the street has been quiet except for weekends and market events. 'It looks like a nice space now, really brightened the area up. Maybe in summer it will pick up. We need more social media marketing and signage to show people what's here.'
Mandi Wilson of Lectric Eye Memorabilia said footfall is slowly building, especially at weekends. 'We need signage to make more people come this way. Sefton Council should help us more.' Her partner Graham Warwick added, 'Last year the street was a building site; we lost a year of trade. They've spent millions, but no one knows it's here. A few more quid on signs wouldn't go amiss.'
Yasmin Walby-Dyer, who opened Crumbs & Grind Co three weeks ago, said the area looks lovely but needs more shops. 'During the artisan market, we were really busy all day. I'd love to see it become weekly.' She also mentioned the upcoming Big Top Festival on May 2-3 as an exciting event.
Tony Blackhurst of Blackhurst Butchers said results have been very good. 'There's more footfall, and it's nice to see people sitting on benches, having picnics. I was worried about losing parking, but widened pavements outweigh that.'
Market quarter revival
Jordan Khokhar, senior general manager at Southport Market, said: 'Large-scale regeneration brings short-term disruption, but we're seeing clear signs of payoff. The monthly artisan market attracts over 1,000 people, introducing visitors to Market Street. The area has hosted record fairs, live music, and community events. Increased flexibility and outdoor seating have created a vibrant atmosphere.'
Phase 2 of the project will focus on the Promenade, improving access to the Marine Lake Events Centre and connecting the town to the seafront with new public spaces and cycle routes.
A Sefton Council spokesperson said: 'We're delighted with positive feedback and will add improved signage across the town. We welcome Big Top to Southport over May 2-3, with Market Street as a major location.'
