Derelict Southport hotel undergoes £1 million conversion into stylish apartments
Transformation includes new restaurant and promises local regeneration
Construction work has commenced on the transformation of the former Continental Hotel in Southport into modern apartments and a new restaurant.
Located on the Promenade, the £1 million project aims to convert the derelict hotel into nine two-bedroom apartments, with a restaurant on the ground floor.
The historic building has been abandoned for the past 20 years, and its resurgence is expected to contribute to the revitalisation of Southport.
Positioned at the top of Scarisbrick Avenue, between the Promenade and Lord Street, the development will adjoin the prominent Red Rum mural, created by Paul Curtis in 2020 during the Sefton Borough of Culture.
H2 The regeneration project
Sefton Council granted planning permission for this redevelopment in 2023. The hotel’s conversion is part of a broader effort to breathe new life into the Promenade area, supported by developments like the £20 million restoration of Southport Pier and the forthcoming £73 million Marine Lake Events Centre.
Vision for the site
Architect Rod Ainsworth designed the restoration of 22 Promenade and highlighted the significance of reviving this Grade II Listed building.
He said: “We need to see the benefits of bringing this magnificent building back into use."
“This is a key building in the regeneration of Southport, by bringing back a Grade II Listed building to life."
The interior redesign aims to draw visitors and enhance the atmosphere around Scarisbrick Avenue.
Encouraging local growth
The revitalisation of the Continental Hotel is expected to support local businesses by bringing more residents to the town centre.
According to Rod Ainsworth: “Bringing people to live in the town centre will help to support local businesses and will also encourage further private investment in a neglected area."
Sefton Council's transformation of Scarisbrick Avenue is part of an effort to attract more visitors and businesses, complementing other developments across the area.
Renovations on nearby streets, such as Nevill Street and Bold Street, further reflect the focus on improving access between Lord Street and the Promenade.