Developer FI Real Estate Management launches public consultation on plans to create a huge industrial park in Liverpool city region that could provide space for up to 2,000 jobs. Tony McDonough reports
A proposed industrial and logistics development close to the Mersey Estuary could provide up to 2,000 new jobs.
Developer FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has launched a public consultation on plans to regenerate a long underused and allocated employment site in Widnes. This new business park would offer multiple units from 1,000 sq ft to 500,000 sq ft.
FIREM says the units at Catalyst Business Park would be designed to accommodate a wide range of industrial and employment occupiers and estimates would be worth around £269m in extra GVA to the local area.
It intends to deliver “energy-efficient, low-impact buildings” designed to the latest industry standards, focusing on sustainability, low operational costs for occupiers, and enhanced biodiversity through new planting and habitat creation.
This site is located just six minutes from the M62 and 15 minutes from the M6, offering access to Liverpool, Warrington, Manchester and the wider motorway network.
The consultation website has been launched to gather feedback and inform about the proposal: click here. Comments can also be emailed to sc***@**********im.com.
Tim Knowles, founder and managing director of FIREM, said: “Catalyst Business Park represents a major opportunity for Widnes. For too long this site has remained undeveloped.
“However, our project can deliver large-scale and high-quality employment space, leading to the creation of thousands of new jobs including specialised roles.
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“Our long-term plan will revitalise the Waterfront area and will offer substantial environmental improvements, alongside significant economic and social benefits. We are keen to receive feedback as we further develop these exciting proposals.”
As the site crosses the boundary between the local authorities, planning applications will be submitted to both Halton Borough Council and Warrington Council.