Construction has officially started on the £81 million Central Docks project in Liverpool, a major phase of the wider £5 billion Liverpool Waters regeneration plan. Chief contractor Graham has broken ground to install the essential infrastructure that will support the development of approximately 2,350 new homes.
The initial work, valued at £71 million, will focus on preparing the 26-acre site with underground utilities, new roads, and the creation of a large public park. This foundational stage is scheduled for completion by spring 2028 and is crucial for the long-term transformation of the city's historic waterfront.
Key Takeaways
- An £81 million project has started at Liverpool's Central Docks, part of the £5bn Liverpool Waters masterplan.
- The initial phase involves laying foundations and infrastructure for 2,350 new homes.
- Funding includes £55 million from Homes England and £26 million from developer Peel Waters.
- A new 4.7-acre public space, Central Park, will be one of the first elements delivered.
Foundations for a New Waterfront Community
The groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant step forward for the Central Docks scheme. The project aims to transform a large brownfield site located between Princes Dock and the new Everton FC stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. The infrastructure work will create 11 fully-serviced, 'shovel-ready' plots for future housing developments.
Developer Peel Waters is leading the project, which is designed to deliver a mix of housing options. The 2,350 planned properties will cater to various needs, including affordable housing, build-to-rent apartments, homes for sale, and specialized elderly living accommodation.
Funding and Partnership
The project's financing is a collaborative effort. Peel Waters is contributing £26 million, while a substantial £55 million has been secured from Homes England through its brownfield land funding programme. This public-private partnership is essential for unlocking the potential of the former docklands.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Project Cost: £81 million
- Site Area: 26 acres
- New Homes: 2,350
- Public Park Size: 4.7 acres
- Wider Masterplan Value: £5 billion (Liverpool Waters)
A Phased Approach to Development
The Central Docks development will be constructed in phases over the next decade. According to James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters, the initial focus is on creating a high-quality environment to attract further investment.
"When they see the work that’s started today, the infrastructure that’s going to be delivered over the next 2.5 years, they can start to believe in the vision and come on board," Whittaker said.
He explained that Peel Waters is already in discussion with four developers to deliver the first phases of housing. These developers are expected to be appointed within the next six months as the infrastructure work progresses.
The Liverpool Waters Masterplan
Central Docks is a key component of the Liverpool Waters regeneration project, a 30-year vision to transform 150 acres of the city's northern docklands. The masterplan aims to create a world-class, mixed-use waterfront quarter along the River Mersey, connecting historic docks with modern living and commercial spaces.
Central Park as a Priority
A central feature of the scheme is a new 4.7-acre public green space named Central Park. This park will be one of the first elements to be completed, establishing a new public realm before the surrounding residential blocks are built. It is designed to include sports facilities, recreational areas, and play equipment for residents and visitors.
Whittaker noted that the requirement to deliver the park first contributed to a longer planning timeline for Central Docks compared to the nearby Princes Dock development. However, this approach ensures that community amenities are integrated from the beginning.
Shaping Liverpool's Future Skyline
Civic leaders have praised the project as a pivotal moment in the city's ongoing renaissance. Liverpool City Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony about the site's historical importance and future potential.
"I honestly believe that Liverpool Waters and everything we’re seeking to do in the North Docks isn’t just one of the most exciting regeneration projects in the country – it’s one of the most exciting regeneration projects anywhere in Europe or beyond," Cllr Robinson stated.
He added that the development is about more than just buildings. "We are not just shaping a community, we’re not just shaping careers, we’re shaping the future skyline of the city for the next century," he said.
Overcoming Economic Challenges
James Whittaker acknowledged the difficulties of the current economic climate but stressed the importance of starting the project. "With the economy as it is, delivering homes is at times going to be very difficult. But starting here at Central Docks is a really important milestone for the whole of Liverpool," he commented.
The commencement of work at both Central Docks and another major Peel project in Trafford Park this year represents significant progress for the developer and the region. The project team for Central Docks includes a wide range of consultants and specialists, including Walker Sime, Actua, Planit, Curtins, and Bate and Taylor architects, among others.