A new £50 million leisure and entertainment complex named 'The Mersey Quay' is set to open in Liverpool's North Docks, creating an estimated 300 new jobs. The development, located near the new Everton F.C. stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, aims to become a major destination for residents and visitors, featuring a cinema, bowling alley, and multiple restaurants.
The project is being led by developers NorthShore Leisure Ltd., who confirmed that construction is scheduled to begin in the final quarter of this year, with a projected opening date in early 2026. The investment is seen as a significant step in the ongoing regeneration of the city's northern docklands.
Key Takeaways
- A new £50 million leisure complex, 'The Mersey Quay', is planned for Liverpool's North Docks.
- The project is expected to create approximately 300 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Facilities will include a multi-screen cinema, a 16-lane bowling alley, an indoor adventure golf course, and several restaurants and bars.
- Construction is set to start later this year, with an opening planned for early 2026.
- The development is a key part of the wider regeneration efforts in the area surrounding Bramley-Moore Dock.
A Major Boost for North Liverpool's Regeneration
The announcement of The Mersey Quay complex is a significant milestone in the transformation of North Liverpool. The area, historically industrial, is undergoing a period of rapid change, anchored by the development of Everton Football Club's new state-of-the-art stadium.
This new leisure hub is strategically positioned to benefit from the increased footfall the stadium will generate on match days and throughout the week. Planners believe it will create a vibrant, seven-day-a-week destination, attracting families, students, and tourists to a part of the city previously overlooked for leisure investment.
The Wider Docklands Vision
The Mersey Quay project aligns with Liverpool City Council's long-term vision for the North Docks, known as the 'Liverpool Waters' scheme. This ambitious plan aims to transform 60 hectares of historic docklands into a sustainable, mixed-use waterfront quarter, combining residential, commercial, and leisure spaces.
According to a statement from NorthShore Leisure Ltd., the development will complement the existing heritage of the docklands while providing modern facilities. The architectural designs reportedly incorporate elements of the surrounding Victorian warehouses, using brick and ironwork to blend the new structure with its historic environment.
Inside The Mersey Quay Complex
The £50 million investment will fund a wide array of entertainment and dining options designed to cater to a broad audience. The developers have confirmed several key tenants and features for the multi-level complex.
Confirmed Facilities and Tenants
The centrepiece of the complex will be a state-of-the-art, 10-screen cinema operated by a major national chain, offering the latest in audio-visual technology. Alongside the cinema, the venue will host:
- A 16-lane bowling alley: Featuring interactive displays and a dedicated food and drink service.
- Indoor Adventure Golf: An 18-hole course with a unique theme inspired by Liverpool's maritime history.
- Family Entertainment Centre: Including an arcade and other interactive games.
- Five restaurant units: Negotiations are ongoing, but operators are expected to include a mix of national chains and local independent eateries.
- Two bar/lounge areas: One will be a sports bar, while the other is planned as a more relaxed cocktail lounge.
This diverse offering is intended to ensure The Mersey Quay is an attractive destination for different groups, from families looking for a day out to friends seeking evening entertainment.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
One of the most significant aspects of the project is its economic contribution to the local area. The creation of 300 new jobs is a major focus, with roles ranging from management and hospitality to technical and customer service positions.
John Davies, CEO of NorthShore Leisure Ltd., commented on the employment opportunities.
"We are committed to ensuring this development benefits the local community directly. Our goal is to work with local employment agencies and colleges to recruit talent from the surrounding postcodes. The Mersey Quay is not just an entertainment venue; it's an investment in the people of North Liverpool."
In addition to the 300 permanent roles, the construction phase is expected to support over 150 temporary jobs, providing a further boost to the local construction industry.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £50 million
- New Permanent Jobs: 300 (approx.)
- Construction Jobs: 150+
- Total Area: 120,000 sq ft
- Projected Opening: Q1 2026
A New Chapter for the Waterfront
Civic leaders have welcomed the announcement as a vote of confidence in Liverpool's post-pandemic economic recovery and its long-term development strategy. The project represents one of the largest private-sector leisure investments in the city in the last five years.
Councillor Sarah Jenkins, Liverpool City Council's cabinet member for development and economy, highlighted the project's importance.
"The Mersey Quay is exactly the kind of high-quality, job-creating development we want to see on our waterfront. It complements the incredible work happening at Bramley-Moore Dock and will help establish the North Docks as a premier destination for both our residents and the millions of tourists who visit Liverpool each year."
The development will also include improvements to local infrastructure, such as enhanced pedestrian access and new public spaces around the complex. Developers have confirmed that sustainability is a key consideration, with plans for solar panels on the roof and electric vehicle charging points in the associated car park.
As construction prepares to get underway, the project signals a new and exciting chapter for the city's iconic waterfront, promising to bring renewed energy and opportunity to the historic North Docks.