Liverpool city region political leaders insist plans to build 10,000 new homes between Liverpool and Bootle can still go ahead despite failing to secure New Town status from the Government. Tony McDonough reports
Political leaders in Liverpool city region say they are determined to press on with plans to build 10,000 new homes.
Their pledge comes after the Government rejected plans for a New Town straddling the border of Liverpool and Sefton. Housing secretary Steve Reed did not include the project in his list of 12 New Towns across the UK.
However, the leaders of Liverpool and Sefton Councils, as well as Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram, say they are now actively looking at plan B and push forward with the major regeneration project.
“I’m incredibly frustrated that our Liverpool North New Town bid hasn’t been taken forward,” said Mr Rotheram.
“This is one of the biggest regeneration opportunities in the country — and today’s decision is a missed chance for Government to back communities that have been overlooked for far too long.
“But regeneration here hasn’t waited for Westminster. From Everton’s new stadium at Bramley Moore to the transformation of Bootle Strand, we’ve already begun reshaping the future of Liverpool North — working with our local partners.”
Liverpool City Council has worked in collaboration with Sefton Council, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Homes England, and key landowners on the proposal.
Known as Liverpool North, this new development would span 5km between Bootle and Liverpool and include Everton, Anfield and Kirkdale. It would see the transformation of a number of brownfield sites.
Other partners include housing associations Torus, Onward, Plus Dane, Riverside, One Vision, as well as Everton FC, Liverpool FC, the City of Liverpool College and Hugh Baird College.
Liverpool City Council leader, Liam Robinson, added: “Naturally we are disappointed that our bid has not been successful, but doing nothing was never an option for us.
“We know the revitalisation of communities across a huge area, from Bootle through Kirkdale, to Anfield and Everton, will give the whole region a massive economic boost, providing thousands of affordable homes.
“Therefore we are already working with our partners to find ways of delivering the scheme regardless. It may take longer to achieve, but I know there is the collective determination and will to make it happen.”
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Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said the commitment to the project is “unwavering”. She added: “The vision for this area is bold and exciting — and we will continue working with our partners to bring it to life.
“Our communities deserve investment, opportunity and regeneration, and the work taking place to transform Bootle town centre and the benefits afforded by the new Everton Stadium mean there is lots we can do without New Town status.”