Leaders from Liverpool and Sefton have affirmed their commitment to a major regeneration project in the north of the city, despite it not being shortlisted for the UK government's New Town initiative. The ambitious plan, known as Liverpool North, aims to transform a 5km stretch of land between the two boroughs.
Key Takeaways
- The 'Liverpool North' regeneration project was not selected for the government’s New Town initiative.
- Liverpool City Council, Sefton Council, and the Combined Authority have pledged to continue with the project regardless.
- The plan covers a 5km area including parts of North Liverpool and Bootle, focusing on housing and economic growth on brownfield sites.
- Key leaders expressed frustration with the government's decision but remain determined to deliver the transformation.
Commitment to a 10-Year Vision
Despite the setback from central government, local authorities are moving forward with their 10-year vision for the Liverpool North area. The project is a collaborative effort between Liverpool City Council, Sefton Council, and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. They are working alongside numerous key partners to bring substantial investment and housing growth to communities in North Liverpool and Bootle.
The decision not to shortlist the proposal for the New Town initiative was met with disappointment, but officials have stated that halting the plans was never considered an option. The collective focus remains on revitalising the region and unlocking its economic potential.
What is the New Town Initiative?
The government's New Town initiative is a programme designed to support the creation of new communities and large-scale housing developments across the country. Being shortlisted would have provided access to significant funding and support to accelerate the delivery of the Liverpool North project. The decision means local partners must now seek alternative ways to finance and implement their vision.
Leaders Express Disappointment and Resolve
Political leaders across the city region have voiced their frustration at the government's decision, describing it as a missed opportunity. However, their statements also carried a strong message of determination to proceed with the regeneration plans using local resources and partnerships.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, highlighted the importance of the project for communities he feels have been overlooked for too long.
“I’m incredibly frustrated that our Liverpool North New Town bid hasn’t been taken forward. This is one of the biggest regeneration opportunities in the country — and today’s decision is a missed chance for government to back communities that have been overlooked for far too long.”
He emphasised that significant progress is already underway without government support, citing Everton's new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock and the transformation of Bootle Strand as key examples. He pledged to continue fighting for investment in the area.
Council Leaders Remain Unwavering
The leaders of both Liverpool and Sefton councils echoed the Mayor's sentiments, reaffirming their dedication to the project's goals.
Liverpool City Council Leader, Councillor Liam Robinson, stressed the economic importance of the plan for the entire region.
“We are absolutely committed to delivering transformational change for Liverpool North. We know the revitalisation of communities across a huge area, from Bootle through Kirkdale, to Anfield and Everton, will give the whole region a massive economic boost, provide thousands of affordable homes and create new districts providing employment, leisure and educational opportunities.”
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, confirmed that her council's commitment to regenerating Bootle and South Sefton is unshaken.
“While we’re disappointed not to have been shortlisted, our commitment to transforming Bootle and South Sefton remains unwavering. The vision for this area is bold and exciting — and we will continue working with our partners to bring it to life.”
Scope of the Liverpool North Project
The Liverpool North development is a comprehensive plan designed to transform a significant corridor of land. The project aims to create a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous community by focusing on underutilised brownfield sites.
Project Area at a Glance
The regeneration zone spans a 5km area and includes several key districts:
- Everton and the Greatie Market area
- Anfield and Kirkdale
- Bootle, including the £20m New Strand development project
The strategy is built around existing local centres and transport links to ensure sustainable growth. A key goal is to accelerate the delivery of new housing, particularly affordable homes, while also stimulating economic activity and creating jobs.
The project's location is strategically important, situated north of Everton FC's new £500 million stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. It also incorporates important local routes like the 'Toffee Trail' between Goodison Park and the new stadium, and the 'Red Walk' from Anfield to the city centre. A further ambition is to improve access to the canal that runs between Liverpool and Sefton, creating new leisure and transport opportunities.
A Partnership-Driven Approach
The Liverpool North vision is underpinned by a wide-ranging partnership involving public and private sector organisations. This collaborative model is now more critical than ever as the project moves forward without central government New Town status.
Key Project Partners
The councils and the Combined Authority have brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including:
- Government Bodies: Homes England
- Registered Housing Providers: Torus, Onward, Plus Dane, Riverside, and One Vision
- Football Clubs: Everton FC and Liverpool FC
- Educational Institutions: The City of Liverpool College and Hugh Baird College
- Landowners: Key landowners throughout the development area
This coalition has been instrumental in shaping the 10-year vision. Their continued collaboration will be essential in finding alternative pathways to secure funding and deliver the planned improvements. The project aims to leverage ongoing investments, such as the new stadium and the Bootle Strand redevelopment, to build momentum for the wider transformation of the area.