Southport town centre will see a peaceful march and rally taking place today (Saturday 31st October 2026) calling for vital Home Office jobs at Smedley Hydro in Birkdale to be saved.
All are welcome to join the event, on Chapel Street at 11.30am.
The campaign has received strong support from local councillors, MPs, PCS members and the wider community.
Read More: Kew Roundabout revamp to begin with new crossings and roundabout clearance
PCS members say 98% of those surveyed want the jobs to remain in Southport and warn that relocation could have a significant impact on staff, particularly those with disabilities, health conditions and caring responsibilities. Increased travel times and costs could make it impossible for some employees to remain in their roles.
The union is also questioning the case for closing the site, pointing to Smedley Hydro’s accessibility, condition and previous investment, as well as the potential costs of relocation and the loss of specialist knowledge and experience.
Southport has already lost a number of major public services and employers, including its children’s A&E department, tax office, libraries and police facilities. PCS says retaining skilled civil service jobs is vital to the town’s economy and future prosperity.
PCS general secretary, Fran Heathcote said:
“Southport has already lost too many vital public services and good, secure jobs. Our community should not have to stand by and watch as the Government considers moving jobs out of the town without properly considering the people who depend on these services, or the staff whose lives and futures will be turned upside down.
“Smedley Hydro has a skilled, dedicated workforce delivering a unique national service. These are not just jobs on a spreadsheet, they are people’s livelihoods, careers and communities. They matter to the staff who do them, to the Home Office and to the future of Southport.”
Rally details
Date: Saturday 31 October 2026
Time: 11:30am
Location: Chapel Street, Southport
The event will include a peaceful march and rally, with Southport MP Patrick Hurley and local councillors joining PCS members and members of the community. All are welcome.
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
The post All welcome at Southport rally calling for jobs to be saved at Smedley Hydro appeared first on Stand Up For Southport.