Delays to the UK's Southport Pier's repairs have had a "devastating" impact on tourism according to Colin Jamieson, who runs attractions on it.
Jamieson, who owns the Southport Pier Pavilion, the cafe and arcade, was forced to close in December after the Grade II listed structure was deemed unsafe by Sefton Council. The council has not given a date for the completion of any repairs.
Jamieson said businesses and visitors were "losing out", adding: "The whole situation is a total mess." The 160-year-old pier, which is the second longest in the UK, was shut over concerns about its wooden walkway.
The council initially borrowed £3m to pay for repair work, which will see about 25 per cent of the walkway planks replaced, but said in June that the initial figure had to be at least £13m.
