There was anger in 2019 when the much-loved Bixteth Gardens in Liverpool was fenced off to make way for new offices – that stalled but with the £55m project now back on green space is set to return. Tony McDonough reports
Green Space is set to return to the heart of Liverpool’s commercial district after a much-loved park was closed off in early 2019.
On Wednesday councillors on the city’s Section 106 Allocations sub-committee will be asked to approve £2.57m to help create One Pall Mall Gardens, part of the £55m new office development.
Much-needed grade A office space was set to be created when the original Pall Mall development secured planning consent in 2019. This meant Bixteth Street Gardens, a green oasis for local office workers, would be fenced off and dug up.
It was a decision that caused widespread local anger and was opposed by many people living and working locally. That anger intensified when communications giant BT pulled out of a pre-let deal causing the entire project to stall.
However, in 2025 the city council announced £15m of public support to bring Pall Mall back to life. Work on the 11,500 sq ft of office and commercial space is set to begin this year, with completion expected on phase one in 2028.
And if, as expected, councillors approve the £2.57m, then green space will once again be provided as part of the development.
Mark Robinson, senior development director at the council’s development partner Kier Property, said: “Moving One Pall Mall Gardens into RIBA Stage 4 is a significant milestone and a clear signal of renewed momentum for this important scheme.
“As the first new-build grade A office development in Liverpool for over 15 years, Pall Mall will deliver net zero carbon enabled workspace that supports occupiers while acting as a catalyst for the continued growth and regeneration of the city centre.”
This requested public realm funding will be used solely for eligible works, including The Lawns, Terraced Gardens and Bixteth Walk.
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Cllr Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy at Liverpool City Council, added: “The progress at Pall Mall Gardens demonstrates our commitment to creating a city centre that works for modern businesses and supports long-term economic growth.
“By investing in high quality, sustainable office space, we are strengthening Liverpool’s commercial offer and creating the conditions that more companies look for when deciding where to invest, locate and grow.”