Liverpool City Council has announced a new Mayoral Development Corporation, which will use devolved powers to fast-track the delivery of thousands of new homes across the city’s North Docks.
The Mayor of Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, set out the plans, which, in tandem with Cllr Liam Robinson, the leader of Liverpool City Council, will speed up the delivery of up to 17,500 new homes and 5 million sq ft of new commercial space within the proposed zone.
The zone is the first of its kind in the region, and covers 174 hectares of predominantly brownfield land, near Everton Football Club’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, between the River Mersey and Liverpool’s Pumpfields and commercial business districts. It would also bring to together three major schemes: the Central Docks development, the £1billion development at King Edward Triangle and the Grade A office scheme at Pall Mall.
Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “Liverpool’s iconic waterfront is one of the greatest assets in the country – but for generations, huge parts of the North Docks have stood as a reminder of the jobs and opportunities we lost after decades of post-industrial decline. Local people have waited far too long to see this area brought back to life, but, working in partnership with government, we’ve now got a once-in-a-generation chance to put that right.”
“We only need to look at the transformation of the Albert Dock to see what can happen when we back a bold, long-term vision. With Everton’s new stadium rising on the Mersey and partners pulling in the same direction, the North Docks can follow that same journey – from derelict land to a place that local people are proud of and visitors want to be part of.”
“By bringing our plans, powers and investment together through a new development corporation for the area, we can unlock one of the biggest brownfield sites in the country and turn it into thousands of good homes, decent jobs and a proper community where families can thrive.”
“And with the £700million housing settlement we’ve just secured, we finally have the tools to get things moving. This is about giving the North Docks the future it deserves – and making sure local people feel the benefit of the opportunities that come with it.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “This will create real opportunities for residents and businesses across Liverpool. The North Docks have the potential to deliver thousands of new homes, modern workspaces and vibrant public spaces that will improve the quality of life for residents and attract investment into the city.”
“By unlocking this area, we can generate thousands of jobs, support local businesses to grow and strengthen Liverpool’s position as a thriving economic hub. The Mayoral Development Corporation gives us the powers and focus to turn ambition into action – ensuring regeneration happens faster, benefits local communities and drives sustainable growth for the whole city region.”
