A major new development at the former Rolls Royce factory site in Bootle is set to create approximately 1,125 jobs and inject nearly £63 million into the local economy annually. The project, known as Atlantic Park, officially began its second phase with a groundbreaking ceremony on September 22.
Key Takeaways
- Job Creation: The development will support an estimated 1,125 jobs in total, with 140 new roles created directly in Phase 2.
- Economic Boost: The project is projected to add £62.9 million to the Liverpool City Region's economy each year.
- Local Impact: Analysis indicates 685 net additional jobs for Sefton residents and £1.2 million in annual business rates for Sefton Council.
- Location: The 52-acre site is located within the Port of Liverpool Freeport zone, enhancing its logistical importance.
Economic Impact and Job Creation Detailed
The Atlantic Park project, managed by developer Royal London Asset Management, represents a significant investment in Sefton. An independent economic analysis commissioned by the developer outlines the substantial benefits for the community.
The development is expected to support a total of 1,125 employment opportunities. Of these, 140 new positions will be created directly through the second phase of construction. Furthermore, the analysis projects that 685 of these jobs will be filled by residents of Sefton, providing a direct boost to local employment.
Project by the Numbers
- £62.9 million: Annual contribution to the Liverpool City Region economy.
- £1.2 million: Annual business rates generated for Sefton Council.
- 1,125: Total jobs supported by the completed project.
- 685: Net additional jobs for Sefton residents.
- 25: Local construction jobs supported each year during the build phase.
During the construction period, the project is also committed to supporting at least 25 jobs annually for local residents. The financial injection for public services is also notable, with an estimated £1.2 million in business rates expected to be paid to Sefton Council each year once the hub is operational.
Leaders Welcome Major Investment
At the groundbreaking ceremony, regional leaders highlighted the project's importance for the area's ongoing regeneration. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram spoke about the broader economic revival taking place.
“There were parts of our city and city of region that were post industrialised wastelands, and that was the bad old days. What you’re seeing now is the resurgence of Liverpool and our city region as somewhere that investors, private sector money, wants to come in.”
Rotheram emphasized that the investment is a result of strategic planning and a more attractive economic environment. He noted the tangible results of this work, stating, “The one thing that is in very short supply at the moment, the one commodity that we need more of is ‘hope’. Now we’re seeing the tangible result of a lot of work.”
A Historic Site Reimagined
The 52-acre Atlantic Park site was formerly home to the Rolls Royce Engineering works, a significant industrial landmark in Bootle's history. Its transformation into a modern logistics and manufacturing hub marks a new chapter for the area, leveraging its strategic position within the Port of Liverpool Freeport zone to attract new business and investment.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills, echoed this sentiment. She explained the long-term effort behind the project, which began with initial work in 2006.
“Sefton Council has been working with Royal London and the Liverpool City Region to progress this project so that we can help our local residents access jobs,” she said. “We can contribute to the economy, and we can actually generate more business rates so that we can offer the people of Sefton more money to spend on services. So everyone’s a winner here, really.”
Focus on Local Skills and Supply Chains
A key component of the Atlantic Park development is its commitment to local employment and skills training. A formal Employment and Skills Plan will be implemented by construction firm Winvik Construction in partnership with local bodies.
These partners include Sefton at Work, Invest Sefton, and local education providers. The collaboration aims to deliver career talks, offer work experience placements, and create direct pathways to training and employment for people in the community.
Success from Phase 1
The project has already demonstrated a strong commitment to local benefits during its first phase. According to project data:
- More than 28% of new vacancies were filled by residents of the Liverpool City Region.
- The project supported 19 apprenticeships, providing valuable on-the-job training.
- Approximately 33% of the total project spend was directed to local suppliers, keeping investment within the regional economy.
This established framework for local engagement is set to continue and expand as the second phase progresses. The focus remains on ensuring that the economic benefits of the development are felt directly by the surrounding communities in Bootle and the wider Sefton borough.
Project Timeline and Future Outlook
The second phase of the Atlantic Park construction project is now underway following the official ceremony. The development is on track for completion in the summer of 2026.
Once finished, the site will function as a large-scale logistics and manufacturing hub, capitalizing on its advantageous location within the Freeport zone. This designation offers tax and customs incentives, making it an attractive base for businesses involved in import, export, and advanced manufacturing.
The successful transformation of the former Rolls Royce site is viewed by local leaders as a blueprint for future regeneration, turning post-industrial land into a source of economic growth and opportunity for the Liverpool City Region.