A significant stage in the multi-million-pound redevelopment of the Bootle Strand shopping centre has been completed, Sefton Council has confirmed. Demolition work along the Palatine, which includes the former Mayflower pub and the Palatine maisonettes, is now finished, marking a visible step forward in the town's transformation.
The work, which began in June, is part of the first phase of a major project designed to create a modern and accessible town centre. The removal of these structures paves the way for new public spaces and facilities aimed at revitalizing the area for residents and businesses.
Key Takeaways
- Demolition work along the Palatine as part of the Bootle Strand redevelopment is complete.
- The former Mayflower pub and the Palatine maisonettes have now been fully removed.
- The project is part of a wider multi-million-pound regeneration plan for Bootle town centre led by Sefton Council.
- Approximately 40,000 square feet of the existing site has been cleared to make way for new developments.
- The demolition phase, led by VINCI Construction UK, is expected to continue until December.
Project Progress and Key Milestones
The regeneration of Bootle Strand has been progressing steadily since work commenced earlier this year. The project reached a notable milestone with the complete removal of all designated buildings along the Palatine.
This phase of the demolition saw the last remnants of The Mayflower pub, a long-standing local landmark, disappear from the skyline. The pub, which closed its doors permanently in 2024, served the community for generations. The adjacent Palatine maisonettes have also been completely torn down.
According to project updates, this follows the successful removal of the Palatine Mall Atrium in July. The current works will also involve the removal of old roof coverings from the Mons Square Canopy, further altering the shopping centre's original structure.
Background of the Redevelopment
Sefton Council took ownership of The Strand shopping centre in 2019 with the goal of driving a wider regeneration of Bootle. The acquisition was intended to give the local authority greater control over the town centre's future and prevent it from falling into decline.
The Vision for Bootle Town Centre
The demolition is the first physical step in a long-term plan to reshape Bootle into what the council describes as a more ‘accessible, inclusive and dynamic destination.’ The primary goal is to move away from a purely retail-focused centre and introduce a mix of uses.
The cleared land, which amounts to approximately 40,000 square feet or 9% of the existing site, is designated for a new public square. This space is intended to host events and provide a central hub for the community. Alongside the public square, the plans include modern spaces for leisure, food and drink, and other public services.
Project by the Numbers
- £32.5 million: The price Sefton Council paid to purchase The Strand in 2019.
- 40,000 sq ft: The approximate area cleared during the initial demolition phase.
- 9%: The percentage of the existing site cleared so far.
- June: The month demolition work began on the current phase.
- December: The expected completion month for the demolition work.
A Strategic Investment
Sefton Council's purchase of The Strand was a significant financial commitment, secured with a £32.5 million loan from the Public Works Loan Board, a body that lends money to public bodies for capital projects. This investment was seen as essential to kickstart the regeneration that private developers had not initiated.
By taking control of the shopping centre, the council aims to guide its development in a way that directly benefits the local community, ensuring it meets the needs of residents for years to come.
Official Statements and Community Impact
Council officials have expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project. The demolition work is being managed by VINCI Construction UK, a major contractor in the field.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, skills and employment, commented on the recent milestone.
“The completion of demolition along the Palatine is a clear sign of progress of the project. This is about creating a town centre that reflects the aspirations of our community, supports local businesses and provides opportunities for generations to come. It is great to see the project progressing.”
Beyond the physical transformation, the project is also designed to deliver social value. According to the council, the construction work has already created apprenticeship and training opportunities for local people. These initiatives are being facilitated through Sefton@Work, the council's employment and skills service, helping to create pathways into the construction industry for residents.
Future Steps
With the Palatine section now clear, work will continue on other parts of the site. The overall demolition phase is scheduled to last until December. Following this, the project will move into the construction of the new public spaces and facilities that form the core of the regeneration plan.
The transformation of Bootle Strand is a long-term undertaking, but the completion of this demolition phase marks a critical and visible step towards achieving the council's ambitious vision for the town centre.