Developer Genr8 Kajima submits hybrid planning application for £200m Liverpool city region development comprising new council offices, a 130-bed hotel and 420 new homes. Tony McDonough reports
Genr8 Kajima is pushing ahead with plans for a £200m mixed-use development in Huyton town centre in what it calls a “pivotal moment” for the area.
In its capacity as Knowsley Council’s development partner, Genr8 Kajima has submitted a hybrid planning application (one that seeks both full and outline permission for different elements) for a huge scheme.
This application seeks full planning consent to build a new 91,000 sq ft headquarters for Knowsley Council and a 130-bed hotel. It also seeks outline planning for 420 new homes, a community hub and a sustainable travel hub.
Also included in the proposals is the creation of a central village green and significant public realm improvements. The development will be called St Michael’s Place and it will transform seven acres of the town centre.
This submission follows a four-week consultation period that ran in April and May 2025, during which more than 5,000 people visited the consultation website and more than 80 people attended in-person events.
Its aim was to seek feedback on plans developed to date so that they could be further refined, address any community concerns and encourage feedback from local voices.
Feedback gathered from the consultation has been instrumental in shaping the planning submission, helping ensure the regeneration meets the needs of all users and supports a “vibrant, inclusive and sustainable” town centre.
Mike Smith, director at Genr8 Kajima Regeneration, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to engage with us.
“The community’s feedback has been invaluable in helping us refine our proposals – from supporting local business and green space to shaping the public realm and housing offer.
“This is a pivotal moment for Huyton, and we’re proud to be taking the next step in delivering a town centre that’s ambitious, inclusive, and future-ready.”
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The planning application will be considered by Knowsley Council with a decision expected early in the new year. James Duncon, chief executive of Knowsley Council, added: “Submitting this planning application is a significant milestone.
“The response to the consultation shows a strong appetite for change and a shared ambition to bring new life to the ‘Village’.
“This project will create jobs, attract investment, and deliver the kind of vibrant, sustainable community our residents deserve.”