More than 85% of respondents have backed plans for a new Mayoral Development Corporation to accelerate the transformation of Liverpool’s North Docks and deliver thousands of homes and jobs. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has welcomed overwhelming public support for plans to accelerate the transformation of Liverpool’s North Docks, unlocking thousands of homes and jobs.
More than 85% of the 537 respondents to a six-week consultation backed the creation of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to lead the area’s long-term regeneration.
The proposed MDC would would bring together powers and investment to help get major developments moving faster, helping to overcome barriers including fragmented land ownership, infrastructure demands and development costs.
It would build on the momentum of Everton FC’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium and extend regeneration northwards along the waterfront.
Covering around 174 hectares, the area could eventually deliver up to 17,000 homes, 5 million sq ft of commercial space, new businesses, green spaces and cultural attractions.
It would also comprise major development opportunities at Central Docks, Kings, Pall Mall, Stanley Dock and Liverpool Cruise Terminal.
Among respondents, 85.2% supported establishing the MDC, 79.3% backed its role as the Local Planning Authority for major developments, 72.7% supported the proposed boundary and 69.5% approved the proposed name.
Many business leaders have also welcomed the plans, suggesting it could help create a more dynamic city centre economy.
Steve Rotheram said: “For generations, the docks were the engine room of Liverpool’s economy and helped make our city famous around the world. Now we have a chance to write the next chapter in their story.
“The North Docks represents one of the biggest opportunities Liverpool has had in generations – bringing huge stretches of brownfield land back to life with new green spaces, homes, good jobs, thriving businesses and fantastic places for people to enjoy.
“Everton’s new stadium has started the ball rolling on the transformation of the North Docks – bringing new investment, new energy and a renewed sense of what’s possible.
“We have an opportunity to build on that momentum by creating new neighbourhoods, opening up more of our waterfront and making the North Docks a place where people want to live, work and spend their time.
“I want to make sure the communities who call this area home are part of that journey and share in its success.”
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Liverpool City Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, added: “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.”
The consultation findings will be considered by the Combined Authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday, 9 September, before a formal proposal goes to the Combined Authority on Friday, 25 September.
Subject to approval, Mayor Rotheram will ask the Secretary of State to establish the Liverpool North Docks MDC – the first of its kind in the Liverpool City Region.
Further work would then take place on its business case, governance and financial arrangements, alongside continued engagement with residents, businesses and other stakeholders.