 By the early 1920s, silting in the water channel allowed for land reclamation, whilst it became more and more difficult for steamer ships to reach the pier; the service ceased entirely in 1929.Profits fell during the 1930s depression, compounded with a large fire in July 1933 destroying the pier head.The cost of damage was estimated at £6000 () which was unaffordable to the Southport Pier Company, who ended up selling the pier to Southport Corporation in June 1936 for £34,744 ().