A new £50 million entertainment complex named The Mersey Plaza is set to open in Liverpool's Baltic Triangle later this year, a project expected to create over 200 new jobs. The development will feature a multi-screen cinema, a boutique bowling alley, and a variety of dining options, aiming to become a major leisure destination for the city.
Developed by North West Leisure Group, the 75,000-square-foot facility is currently under construction on a former industrial site off Jamaica Street. The official opening is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024, with recruitment for key roles beginning next month.
Key Takeaways
- A new £50 million entertainment venue, The Mersey Plaza, is opening in the Baltic Triangle.
- The project is expected to generate more than 200 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Facilities include a state-of-the-art cinema, bowling alley, virtual reality arena, and multiple restaurants.
- The grand opening is planned for late 2024, boosting the local leisure economy.
A Major Investment in Liverpool's Leisure Sector
The Mersey Plaza represents one of the most significant private investments in Liverpool's leisure and hospitality sector in recent years. North West Leisure Group has confirmed the total project cost is £50 million, covering land acquisition, construction, and high-spec internal fit-outs.
This development aims to fill a gap in the market by providing a comprehensive, family-friendly entertainment hub within one of the city's fastest-growing creative and residential districts. The project is designed to operate day and night, catering to families, students, and corporate clients.
James Kensington, CEO of North West Leisure Group, commented on the project's vision.
"We see The Mersey Plaza as a transformative project for the Baltic Triangle and for Liverpool as a whole. Our goal is to create a premier destination that offers a diverse range of high-quality entertainment and dining experiences under one roof. This is more than just an investment in a building; it's an investment in the community and the city's vibrant culture."
The developers have worked closely with Liverpool City Council to ensure the design complements the unique character of the Baltic Triangle, incorporating modern architecture with industrial-inspired aesthetic elements.
The Baltic Triangle's Transformation
Once the industrial heart of Liverpool's docklands, the Baltic Triangle has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. Previously dominated by warehouses and workshops, the area is now a thriving hub for creative industries, independent businesses, and modern residential developments. The arrival of The Mersey Plaza marks a new phase in its evolution, adding a large-scale leisure facility to its established digital and creative identity.
Inside The Mersey Plaza: What to Expect
The 75,000-square-foot complex is designed to offer a wide array of activities. The developers have released details on the key attractions that will form the core of the visitor experience.
State-of-the-Art Cinema Experience
At the heart of the plaza will be an eight-screen boutique cinema operated by national chain 'PictureHouse Cinemas'. It will feature the latest in laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound technology. According to the plans, several screens will be luxury-focused, offering reclining seats, at-seat food and drink service, and a more intimate viewing environment.
Family Entertainment and Gaming
A significant portion of the ground floor will be dedicated to family entertainment. This includes:
- A 12-lane boutique bowling alley with interactive projections and a dedicated bar.
- 'Portal VR', a cutting-edge virtual reality arena offering both single-player and group experiences.
- An arcade zone featuring a mix of retro classics and modern video games.
These facilities are designed to cater to a broad demographic, from children's parties to corporate team-building events.
Dining and Social Spaces
The Mersey Plaza will also host four new restaurants and two bars, with operators to be announced in the coming months. The developers have stated they are in final negotiations with a mix of national brands and local independent operators to provide a diverse food and beverage offering. A central food hall-style space is also included in the design, providing a communal dining area with views over a newly created public square.
The Mersey Plaza by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £50 million
- Total Area: 75,000 square feet
- New Jobs Created: 200+
- Cinema Screens: 8
- Bowling Lanes: 12
- Projected Opening: Q4 2024
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The creation of over 200 new jobs is a central part of the project's benefit to the local economy. These roles will range from management and technical positions to customer service, hospitality, and cleaning staff. A recruitment drive is scheduled to begin in late summer, with a focus on hiring from the local community.
Councillor Sarah Doyle, Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Development and Economy, praised the development's potential.
"This is a fantastic vote of confidence in Liverpool's economy. The £50 million investment and the creation of 200 jobs in the Baltic Triangle will provide a significant boost for the area. It diversifies the local offer, creates employment opportunities for our residents, and will attract more visitors to this dynamic part of our city."
Beyond direct employment, the complex is expected to have a positive knock-on effect for other local businesses, increasing footfall and driving evening economy activity in the Baltic Triangle. The construction phase has already supported dozens of jobs through local contractors and suppliers.
Looking Ahead to the Grand Opening
Construction on The Mersey Plaza is reported to be on schedule, with the main structure now complete and work focusing on the interior fit-out. The developers are planning a phased opening in late 2024, culminating in a grand launch event before the busy Christmas period.
Further announcements regarding the specific restaurant partners and the official opening date are expected over the next few months. North West Leisure Group has launched a preliminary website where interested parties can sign up for updates on job vacancies and opening events.
This development is set to become a landmark destination in Liverpool, further cementing the Baltic Triangle's reputation as one of the UK's most exciting and rapidly evolving urban neighbourhoods.