Archive - The Southport Lead

Smedley closure could force staff into redundancy or retirement

Around 1,200 jobs could be moved out the town under proposals to close the building

Aug 26 • Jamie Lopez

The Sands deal defended as council concedes it doesn’t know if developer can afford it

GSL Developments has been awarded for a lease after no other viable proposals were made

Aug 23 • Jamie Lopez

Public warned to stay out of sea after manure washes up at Ainsdale

Initially feared to be a sewage spill, the truth was somewhat different

Aug 20 • Jamie Lopez

Council communication has turned aviary decision into political catastrophe

The decision was always going to land badly but it didn't have to be this bad

Aug 16 • Jamie Lopez

Out of town, over-budget and unregistered homes: The challenges facing children's social care

Most of Sefton's cared for children live outside the borough while unregistered homes are used elsewhere across Merseyside

Aug 12 • Jamie Lopez

Dynamic pricing considered for Southport's public toilets

A Sefton Council report raises the possibility of increasing prices during major events for when people need to Viagogo

Aug 9 • Jamie Lopez

Cancer support service facing the axe as GP funding changes

Southport Macmillan Centre will no longer receive funding for its Cancer Navigator Service

Aug 5 • Jamie Lopez

Sale plan to keep Brewers Fayre open to public

The Ocean Plaza restaurant will remain open - if buyers are found

Aug 2 • Jamie Lopez

July 2026

What is a Local Plan and what does it mean for Sefton?

The process has begun and will shape the future of the borough.

Jul 29 • Jamie Lopez

Cautious hope in Southport for Andy Burnham's plan to end rough sleeping

The intent is well received but more detail is wanted from those tackling the issue in Southport

Jul 26 • Jamie Lopez

£4m overspend warning just three months after Sefton Council sets budget

Children Social Care costs are ballooning and savings must now be found

Jul 22 • Jamie Lopez

Southport-Sefton divide reignited in rows over beach and aviary

Council leader accused of not listening to Southport sparks anger with 'inhumane' aviary comments

Jul 19 • Jamie Lopez

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