Ground broken on new Lifeboat Station
The Trustee Directors of the Southport Offshore Rescue Trust are pleased to announce that they have broken ground on the construction of their new Lifeboat Station. Kath Wilson, founder of the charity that operates the Southport Lifeboat, officially broke ground with Julian Cassidy of Nobles Construction Limited whilst in the presence of the other Trustee Directors and Project Consultants on Monday 30th July 2018.
“This day has been a long time coming” said Kath, who started the charity after her son Geoffrey lost his life off Southport in 1987. “There were times when I thought it would never happen, but I’m so proud to finally see construction under way.” A larger, purpose built station not only means that both of Southport’s lifeboats and their respective launch vehicles can remain coupled together, but will also allow room for the much needed facilities our crew have been lacking for so many years; all at a location closer to the beach.
Nicola Goldup, Trustee Director of Southport Lifeboat said “Our crew do extraordinary work whatever the hazards they may face and will now have a building which will enhance the service we currently provide. “The building is in a prime location and will significantly reduce launching times, provide much needed facilities to store and maintain equipment, and provide crew and visitor welfare facilities.”
The Project team have considered the Trusts operational requirements and lifecycle of materials throughout the design process to ensure requirements are future proofed. This will enable the Charity to plan the growth and development of its search and rescue operations for the long term. The new station will be constructed with materials that are marine environment tolerant whilst sympathetically nestling into its surroundings.
Peter Piorun, Quantity surveyor of Nobles said; “Nobles are not only excited but proud to be selected as the Principal Contractor chosen for the Construction of Southport Lifeboat Station. “We look forward to working alongside Southport Offshore Rescue Trust to provide what is set to be an outstanding addition to Southport’s Shoreline.”
Completion of the £1.4 million building is expected to be in March 2019.
