Local residents and local businesses can learn more about The Open golf championship taking place in Southport this summer and how it will affect them.
All are welcome at the first Community Engagement Event which will take place at Southport Market, King Street, Southport PR8 1LA between 12pm and 6pm this Thursday (12th February 2026).
Royal Birkdale will once again host The Open from 12th-19th July 2026.
Practice Days take place from Sunday 12th to Wednesday 15th July, followed by Championship Days from Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th July 2026.
Significant economic benefits to the local community
This will be the first time since 2017 that Southport welcomes golf’s original Championship, an event that attracts worldwide attention, brings thousands of visitors to the borough, and delivers significant economic benefits to our local communities.
Public engagement sessions
To help residents learn more about plans for The Open, The R&A, in partnership with Sefton Council and other key stakeholders, is hosting a series of public community engagement sessions.
You will be able to hear from the teams delivering the Championship.
Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnership Engagement, said:
“The Open is a huge moment for Sefton, and it’s important that our communities feel informed, involved, and excited as preparations move forward.
“These engagement sessions are a great opportunity for residents to hear directly from the teams delivering the Championship, ask questions, and understand the positive impact this global event will bring to our borough.”
Upcoming community engagement events :
Thursday 12th February 2026, 12pm–6pm
Southport Market, King Street, Southport (PR8 1LA)
Thursday 14th May 2026, 11am–6pm
Southport Market, King Street, Southport (PR8 1LA)
Attendees will be able to hear about the latest arrangements as the Championship approaches and speak directly with representatives from The R&A, Sefton Council, and other delivery partners.
These sessions are open to everyone, and organisers look forward to welcoming you.
Updates and future sessions
Updates, future engagement and drop in dates can be found here.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com