Southport Pier has now closed its gates to the public in order to keep people safe during the Coronavirus outbreak.
The pier was open over the last few days, as the government urged people to enjoy the fresh air and take some exercise.
But after crowds of people arrived at the seafront in Southport over the weekend the decision has now been made by the owners to close the pier and close the takeaway businesses which were operating along it for safety reasons.
The owners are due to be on the pier today so make the buildings secure, remove all perishables, stock and anything of value, as well as switching off all freezers and fridges.
A Southport Pier spokesperson said: “We kept our gates open so that you could all enjoy some wide open space. But many people cannot respect social distancing guidelines sadly.
“We have no control over the first half of the pier but would politely ask that people don’t use the first half of the pier for their daily exercise as we don’t want to encourage any social gatherings or people hanging around the premises.
Southport Pier. Photo by Andrew Brown Media
“None of our takeaway units remain open.
“Thank you to everyone for your continued support at this sad time.”
Southport Library, Southport One Stop Shop and other Sefton Council buildings have also closed.
A spokesman for Sefton Council said: “Due to continuing guidance from the government on the COVID-19 situation, we have taken the decision to temporarily close our libraries, One Stop Shops and our Sefton@Work public facing buildings.
“The safety and health of our staff and residents is paramount and we have taken this decision in line with recent government advice to close both Southport & Bootle One Stop Shops, our Sefton@Work Hub as well as our six libraries across the borough until further notice.
“These services will continue to be delivered online and via telephone where applicable. For more information about services which have been affected by the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak please visit www.sefton.gov.uk/communitycovid.”
