During the November Single Area Committee meeting held at the Southport Town Hall, our Party praised the collective efforts of numerous residents, who campaigned for the return of the Lord Street coloured tree lights. We stated “it is good to see them again switched on for the coming Christmas season and New Year”.
But, unfortunately, all is not well for our once colourful festoon illuminations that used to extend all the way from Fairways in the North to Pleasureland at the southern end of Southport Promenade. For abracadabra – they have all disappeared, leaving a dimly-lit night-time area that certainly needs livening up to attract more evening strollers and to help the business trade.
When we asked Lord Ronnie of Southport, the political head of Leisure and Tourism, over 9 months ago, about the then deteriorating state of this lighting, he said “there are electric cable problems to be solved”. However, when we requested an update at the above November meeting – Mi Lord disappeared from the gathering before we had time to ask the question. With our Promenade earmarked for a new conference hotel next to the Floral Hall and the Aquapark due to open next year opposite the now revamped Pleasureland, this entire frontal area badly needs an illumination facelift in order to be prepared for the new and exciting attractions that will be coming on stream in the near future. Our Party continues to campaign for more town improvements to enhance our resort including the installation of modern LED lighting along the Promenade. We consider it should be a priority for the Westminster Grandee, who we hope will press home the need for a quick return of this once attractive illuminated seafront display.