Inflammatory rumours have suddenly flared up again about Pontin's in Ainsdale

Save our terrace in Churchtown Village

THE vibrant heart of Churchtown has received a significant boost following the launch of a popular new culinary venture on the corner of Cambridge Road and Manor Road, called Suzie's. Opening its doors on:- Monday, 24 November 2025, the stylish cafe, situated at the former Boxtree Nurseries site, has rapidly established itself as a cornerstone of the local community. Run by local entrepreneur Suzie, the establishment has won widespread acclaim for its dedicated partnership with regional suppliers, successfully driving fresh footfall into the historic village and breathing new life into neighbouring independent businesses.

At a time when high streets across the UK face economic headwinds and employment challenges, the astonishing success of this startup highlights the vital role small businesses play in sustaining local economies. Beyond creating valuable jobs, the enterprise has transformed the venue into a beloved focal point where families, residents, and visitors regularly gather. Central to this success is the beautifully crafted outdoor terrace, which represents a substantial private investment of money, time, and dedication. The space has been widely praised for enhancing the aesthetic charm of Churchtown, fostering social cohesion, and providing a unique hub for community events and everyday connections.

However, the future of the booming business and the local jobs it supports is currently under threat due to a major planning dispute. While the venue has been a massive hit, a small number of nearby residents have shared concerns online regarding its popularity. Local resident Paula Howard, writing on social media, noted that whilst the cafe is a very nice space, the sheer volume of patrons has occasionally made accessing her home on Denmark Road difficult. But besides the minor issue of parking, it is Sefton Council's planning decision regarding the outdoor terrace itself that has sparked an urgent campaign to protect the start-up, because the Council is trying to have it pulled down. Following the notice being given to Susies's about the structure, a strong community movement has started to rally behind the business. So far an online petition that was launched on:- 24 March 2026, is rapidly gathering signatures from supporters desperate to save the space and the business. Sefton Council's planning guidance emphasizes that the local authority seeks to balance economic development with the preservation of residential areas.

Rather than letting the planning dispute harm local entrepreneurship, the cafe management is actively seeking a positive, collaborative resolution with local officials. The business owners have proposed an open dialogue with Sefton Council and other Churchtown Village stakeholders to explore alternative solutions that meet regulatory objectives, without sacrificing this vital community asset and the jobs the business has created.

This is a video interview we held with the Manager of the venue...

Suggested compromise measures includes:- exploring shared maintenance responsibilities, organizing local fundraisers to support upkeep, or fully integrating the outdoor terrace into broader village enhancement plans spearheaded by residents and officials. With overwhelming public backing and clear mechanisms for Council review, supporters remain highly optimistic that a constructive solution can be reached to secure a bright, sustainable future for Churchtown.

This move by the Council has also affected the plans for other locations looking to be redeveloped and restored into workable business opportunities, within the area.

What are your thoughts on this news topic? Email our Newsroom at:- News24@SouthportReporter.Com or send us a message on:- Mastodon, Facebook, or Twitter. Please do let us know as we love to hear your views...