Decision details

This report seeks approval to publish and consult upon a draft ‘Developer Contributions to Southport Visitor Infrastructure’ Supplementary Planning Document.

Decision(s):

That the draft ‘Developer Contributions to Southport Visitor Infrastructure’ Supplementary Planning Document be approved for publication and consultation.

Reason(s) for the Decision(s):

Southport is Sefton’s key Tourism and Visitor location. Tourism generates a significant amount of jobs and investment in the town but also puts huge strain on its infrastructure, much of which is managed by the Council. Therefore, it is considered appropriate that development which benefits from investment in and the upkeep of infrastructure that supports the tourism and visitor economy, contributes to it.

To that end, the Council are proposing a Supplementary Planning Document to seek developer contributions from certain types of developments towards visitor infrastructure in Southport. The area that this SPD will apply to is the Southport Central Area and Southport Seafront, as defined in the Sefton Local Plan and the plan below. The only exception is that the charge will apply to hotels and other visitor accommodation in the wider Southport area.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None. The Council is required to maintain an up-to-date Local Development Scheme and has been instructed to produce a timetable for a new Local Plan.