Dads transforming historic seaside town building with fun concept

What's OnWhat's On NewsSouthportA historic building has an exciting new tenant06:00, 22 Jul 2026Two dads are preparing to open a new café with a unique concept in a historic Southport building. Friends Danny Melia and Mark Gaudie are working hard to launch their venture together in part of the ground floor of the former Debenhams department store in the Northern Quarter of Lord Street.‌The former Debenhams building, which was originally built in 1888 and a key element of Southport's retail success, closed in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. The property was bought by new owners in 2021 for £799,000.‌Posters previously appeared in the window of the once iconic store advertising the premises would be suitable for anyone wanting to open a shop, a café, or a bar, with units available be