Blacks Business Brokers Completes Successful Sale Of This Commercial Property

Blacks Business Brokers, a leading specialist in business sales and commercial property transactions, is delighted to announce the successful sale of a historic freehold property in Southport town centre. This rare acquisition opportunity was marketed exclusively through Blacks Business Brokers and attracted significant interest due to its prime location, rich history, and exceptional investment potential.

The property, formerly home to Lancashire’s longest-running bookshop, has been a central fixture in Southport for over 100 years. Occupying three interconnected addresses over four floors, the building includes Numbers 5 and 7, which housed the iconic bookshop. The business ceased trading in July 2025, with the sale conducted as a freehold-only transaction. The property’s heritage, coupled with its strategic position in Southport, made it an attractive prospect for investors and entrepreneurs seeking a versatile commercial or mixed-use space.

The building is situated on Market Street, placing it at the heart of Southport’s bustling town centre. Market Street offers a strategic link between the famous Lord Street, known for its vibrant retail and hospitality sector, and the recently refurbished Southport Market, which has become a focal point for locals and visitors alike. Over the decades, the bookshop had established itself as a destination for readers from across the country, further enhancing the property’s profile. Southport itself is renowned for its Victorian charm, bustling promenade, and attractions such as the Royal Birkdale Golf Club, creating a thriving environment for commercial investment. The area surrounding Market Street boasts a mix of independent businesses, cafes, and retailers, benefiting from increased footfall and recent pedestrianisation projects.

The property comprises a blend of retail and upper-floor space, offering numerous opportunities for redevelopment or income generation. The main retail areas are housed across two addresses, Numbers 5 and 7, with ground-floor space that historically served as the bookshop. Above this, the first, second, and third floors provide additional rooms that can be accessed independently via Number 7, offering the flexibility to convert these spaces into residential flats, office units, or additional retail storage. Subject to planning approval, the upper floors present a significant opportunity for creating modern apartments, generating rental income or enhancing the property’s value for long-term investment.

One of the building’s most appealing features is its period charm. Original fireplaces, decorative mouldings, and a Victorian glazed canopy create a unique character that is increasingly rare in Southport town centre. At the rear, a courtyard with a brick storage building provides secure access and additional utility, while a right of way over neighbouring properties further enhances operational flexibility. These distinctive features contribute to the property’s heritage appeal while offering practical advantages for a range of potential uses.

Financially, the property represents a compelling freehold investment opportunity. While the bookshop is no longer operational, the premises’ prime location and flexible layout allow for diverse income streams, including retail rental, office space, or residential conversion. Investors seeking a long-term asset in a prominent Southport location will find the property an attractive proposition, particularly given the town centre’s ongoing revitalisation and increased visitor numbers.

The freehold sale included all fixtures and fittings intrinsic to the property’s historical and architectural value. Period features such as fireplaces, staircases, and the Victorian canopy remain as part of the sale, ensuring that the building’s character is preserved for future occupants. These elements, combined with the interconnected layout of the property, make it highly adaptable for new ventures while retaining a strong sense of heritage.

Blacks Business Brokers was chosen for this sale due to their unparalleled expertise in marketing and selling commercial and high-value freehold properties. With a track record of successful transactions across the North West, the firm provides tailored advice, professional negotiation, and comprehensive market insight. By leveraging their extensive network of investors, developers, and business owners, Blacks Business Brokers ensured that the property reached the right audience quickly and efficiently, resulting in a successful sale.

Joanne Booth, the sales negotiator who oversaw the transaction, commented: “This is a fantastic example of how a property with such history and potential can find the right buyer through strategic marketing and expert negotiation. The building’s Victorian charm, central location, and flexible layout made it an exceptional opportunity. We were thrilled to help facilitate a smooth sale and ensure the legacy of this iconic Southport property continues in capable hands. Working with Blacks Business Brokers ensures sellers benefit from a bespoke, professional approach that maximises value while reaching the right audience.”

This historic freehold property in Southport town centre represents a versatile and attractive investment opportunity. Located within the Market Quarter, an area that has undergone extensive pedestrianisation and revitalisation, it benefits from proximity to major town centre attractions and a growing retail community. Its flexible configuration allows for a variety of uses, from retail and office space to residential apartments, while the preserved Victorian features provide a distinctive aesthetic that is increasingly sought after by both investors and tenants. Whether restoring Lancashire’s iconic bookshop or launching a bold new venture, the property’s combination of heritage, flexibility, and income potential ensures its status as a standout investment in the region.

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