SEFTON COAST NATURE CONSERVATION STRATEGY

Gateways Masterplans

Overview

The Sefton Coast Plan identifies the need for a series of Gateway Masterplans to guide nature recovery at a local level. In 2021, the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership (SCLP) and Green Sefton published a Vision Position Statement, outlining priorities and progress for four key gateways along the coast.

Alongside this, the Recreational Mitigation Strategy is developing gateway management plans to help address recreational pressures and contribute to improving the favourable condition of the Sefton Coast’s designated habitats and species.

Each gateway is currently at a different stage of masterplan development.

Crosby Coastal Park

In 2021, Sefton Council carried out a Crosby Visioning exercise, outlining goals, principles, and a long-term vision for how the Park (extending as far as Hightown) could evolve by 2030.

The vision highlights the ecological value of the area, including habitats supporting skylark and several rare coastal plant species.

View the Crosby Visioning Document (PDF)

Formby

Between 2021 and 2022, National Trust Formby developed a spatial plan acting as a masterplan for the estate. It sets out aspirations for ecology, land management, facilities, and access.

Proposals for the Victoria Road car park have since been approved, with construction works underway in 2025.

Ainsdale

In September 2025, Sefton Council published Ainsdale‑on‑Sea Ecovision – Nature-Led Regeneration. This document sets out how Ainsdale’s natural and built assets may support the regeneration of this key coastal gateway, creating a sustainable and high-quality environment for residents and visitors.

Read the Ainsdale Ecovision (PDF)

Southport

Sefton Council has secured £37.5 million from the Town Deal Fund for Southport. Following extensive consultation, the Southport Town Investment Plan was developed to support long-term ambitions based on strengthening the visitor economy, diversifying the local economy, and improving infrastructure.

The four key projects include:

  • Marine Lake Events Centre
  • Les Transformations de Southport
  • Enterprise Arcade
  • Building Better Customer Experience