EFT project approved by Sefton
The construction, electrical and life safety systems group is investing £9m in a 55,000 sq ft development at Southport Business Park.
Sefton Council has supported the proposals by EFT, a key employer in the borough, to relocate from its base off Cobden Road, which can no longer support its growth ambitions.
The investment will see a site on Wight Moss Way – vacant for more than a decade – transformed into a modern base for the growing business, incorporating office, training and light industrial facilities.
As reported by Place on the scheme being submitted, the scheme covers a 26,500 sq ft HQ for EFT, along with a further 28,600 sq ft of SME-focused units.
EFT Group, which specialises in life safety, security and construction services, has continued to expand in recent years all while maintaining its commitment to their home town.
Sefton said that the site has historically presented significant development challenges including difficult ground conditions.
However, said the local authority, through sustained partnership working detailed progress has been made on land arrangements, development proposals and potential funding support, making development viable.
The project is also the subject of a live funding bid to the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, which would help unlock the next phase of delivery.
The development has also been supported by a Section 106 contribution linked to Aldi’s investment in Southport.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “This is fantastic news for Southport and another clear demonstration of the confidence that the private sector has in Sefton’s economic future.
“What makes this development particularly significant is the robust partnership behind it. By working closely with EFT our officers have helped overcome longstanding challenges that the site has faced.
“This is exactly the kind of positive collaboration we want to encourage across Sefton for the benefit of our residents.
“We are determined to keep building on that momentum and support anyone who shares our ambition for the borough.”
Stewart Meechan, director of EFT Group, said: “As a local family company, we are proud of our roots in Southport.
“This development reflects our commitment to the area and our belief in its future, with this investment EFT Group is firmly bedding our roots into Southport for the next 50 years, creating a lasting base for our business, our employees and the next generation of workers across Sefton.
“Securing planning permission is a hugely important milestone for everyone who has worked hard to bring this development forward.
“The support and collaboration we have received from Sefton Council has been instrumental in helping us reach this stage.”
Although there are still details to iron out, the development is expected to start in 2027.
