A planning application has been submitted to Wirral Council for the construction of two new industrial units on Riverbank Road in Bromborough. The proposal, brought forward by developer Redsun Projects Ltd, aims to create a new, larger facility for Star International, a marine safety solutions company currently based in Birkenhead.
Key Takeaways
- A planning application has been filed for two industrial units on Riverbank Road, Bromborough.
- The primary unit is intended for Star International, a marine safety firm that has outgrown its Birkenhead premises.
- The development includes extensive parking, with 36 spaces for Unit 1 and 21 for Unit 2.
- The move is driven by the company's need for a larger, modern, waterside location to support its growth.
Details of the Proposed Development
The application outlines a plan to develop a key industrial site in Bromborough. Submitted on behalf of Redsun Projects Ltd, the proposal details the construction of two distinct units complete with ancillary office space, service yards, and dedicated parking areas. The project also includes plans for comprehensive landscaping to integrate the new buildings into the surrounding environment.
According to the planning documents, the development is designed to meet modern industrial standards. The larger of the two buildings, designated as Unit 1, is specifically intended to become the new headquarters for Star International. This unit will be supported by a car park with 36 spaces, which includes four designated disabled bays. The second, smaller building, Unit 2, will have its own facilities, including a car park with 21 spaces, three of which will be for disabled access.
Parking and Accessibility
The proposal allocates a total of 57 parking spaces across the two units, with approximately 12% of these (7 spaces) designated for disabled access, ensuring the site meets modern accessibility standards.
Star International's Strategic Relocation
The driving force behind the proposed development is the planned relocation of Star International. The company, a specialist in safety solutions for the global marine and offshore industries, has identified the Bromborough site as an ideal location for its expansion. Currently operating from premises in Birkenhead, the firm has found its existing facilities are no longer sufficient to accommodate its growth.
A Design and Access Statement prepared by Broadgrove Planning, submitted as part of the application, highlights the company's situation. It confirms that Star International has "outgrown its current premises in Birkenhead" and has expressed a strong preference to remain within Wirral, provided a suitable site can be found.
Who is Star International?
Star International provides critical safety equipment and services to the maritime sector. Their offerings include fire safety systems, marine evacuation systems (like life rafts), and refrigeration solutions for vessels. The company's on-site inspection and servicing packages are crucial for ensuring ships comply with international safety regulations.
The proposed waterside location on Riverbank Road is a key factor in the company's interest. Proximity to the water is essential for the nature of their business, which involves servicing and supplying large marine vessels.
"The nature of their business requires a water-side location; thus, the site presents an ideal opportunity for Star International," the planning statement notes.
Economic and Planning Considerations
Supporting Local Business Growth
The application is presented as a significant opportunity to retain a key local employer within the Wirral borough. By providing a modern, purpose-built facility, the development aims to prevent Star International from having to relocate outside the area to find a suitable home for its expanding operations. This move would secure existing jobs and potentially create new ones as the company grows.
The investment in new industrial infrastructure in Bromborough also aligns with broader economic goals for the region. Developing underutilised industrial land helps stimulate economic activity and reinforces Wirral's position as a hub for marine and engineering services, a sector with deep historical roots in the area.
Compliance and Sustainability
The planning consultants argue that the proposal is fully compliant with relevant policies at both a local and national level. The Design and Access Statement concludes that the project constitutes "sustainable development" and urges the council to approve the plans promptly.
- Economic Sustainability: Retains a growing local business and supports the maritime supply chain.
- Environmental Sustainability: Involves developing on existing industrial land with plans for new landscaping.
- Social Sustainability: Secures local employment and provides modern, accessible facilities.
The statement concludes with a formal request for swift approval from Wirral Council's planning department.
"The proposed development complies with policies at a local and national level and therefore constitutes sustainable development. We respectfully request that planning permission is granted without delay."
Next Steps in the Planning Process
With the application now officially submitted, it has been registered with Wirral Council under the reference number APP/23/01659. The proposal will now enter a period of public consultation, where local residents, businesses, and other stakeholders can review the plans and submit their comments.
Following the consultation period, council planning officers will assess the application against the Wirral Local Plan and other material considerations. They will prepare a report with a recommendation for either approval or refusal. The final decision will likely be made by the council's planning committee at a future public meeting.
Members of the public interested in viewing the full details of the application can do so via the Wirral Council's online planning portal, using the reference number provided.