As a long-standing campaigner for the heritage of Sefton, I am continuing to urge the R&A - the organising body behind major golf championships - to adopt my proposals for the improvement of the Sefton coastline, specifically Southport beach. Earlier this year, the R&A held a pre-consultation regarding a potential planning application to expand their use of public land at Birkdale Common. While I expect to see standard temporary changes for visitors attending The Open this summer, the company is seeking permanent structural modifications. I am concerned that these changes could alter our landscape forever and reduce public access to the land.
Background and Concerns
As the former councillor for Dukes Ward, which covers the town centre and West Birkdale, I took part in this consultation. I am now seeking active support for the Sefton coastline to ensure that the tournament leaves a lasting, positive legacy for everyone, encouraging investment and protecting our historic buildings.
Proposed Action Plan
I want to see a collaborative action plan that clears overgrown 'marram grass' from our sand dunes in partnership with the local authority and Natural England. I am also pushing for better flooding defences for homes located along the coastal edge, such as those on Westbourne Road.
My proposals align with Sefton Council’s Local Plan, focusing on economic growth and the conservation of our natural and built environments. I believe we must seize this opportunity to fulfil past policy pledges and support the restoration of our beaches from Churchtown to Ainsdale. My key proposals for Birkdale Common and the wider area include:
- Restoring beach access: Working with Natural England to open up the coastline for both golfers and tourists.
- Removing marram grass: A commercial agreement to cleanse the coastline of overgrown grass, which would improve the view and create new economic opportunities for Sefton Council.
- Protecting public paths: Ensuring long-established walkways remain open for the health and recreation of local residents.
- Supporting heritage: Using grants to rescue 'at-risk' buildings, such as the former Terra Nova School on Lancaster Road, which could be transformed into a luxury hotel.
- Improving infrastructure: Creating a car parking fund to support the local economy and ensuring full accessibility for prams and disabled users.
- Resident benefits: Introducing a 'priority pass' for local people and businesses who are often inconvenienced by the congestion caused by major events.
Campaign Goals
"I am pursuing my campaign to work together with the R&A as we can achieve something that would spectacularly commemorate the legacy of the 154th Open if even one or several of these action points are taken forward," I stated.
"This is a positive and constructive campaign designed to best harness the skillsets of all key stakeholders, benefiting both commercial parties and the community alike. I have written to the R&A and await their response in due course."
