Peel Waters has appointed construction firm GRAHAM to deliver £71 million of essential infrastructure at the Central Docks neighbourhood within the Liverpool Waters development. This significant contract marks a major step forward in the regeneration project, paving the way for the construction of approximately 2,350 new homes and a large public park on one of the UK's most prominent brownfield sites.
Key Takeaways
- GRAHAM has been selected as the main contractor for a £71 million infrastructure project at Central Docks, Liverpool Waters.
- The works will support the development of around 2,350 new homes with a mix of tenure options.
- A new 2.1-hectare public park, Central Park, will be created as a centrepiece for the neighbourhood.
- The project is supported by a £55.2 million grant from Homes England, with Peel Waters investing £25.9 million.
- Construction is scheduled to commence in autumn 2025.
Major Milestone for Liverpool's Waterfront
The appointment of GRAHAM as the main contractor is a critical development for the Central Docks area, the largest of five planned neighbourhoods in the ambitious Liverpool Waters scheme. This move signals the start of on-the-ground work following the completion of site investigations and final designs.
GRAHAM will be responsible for installing the foundational infrastructure necessary to transform the former docklands. This includes creating new roads, public spaces, and installing all essential underground utilities such as water, power, and digital connectivity. These works are fundamental to unlocking the site's potential for large-scale residential development.
The project aligns with the UK Government's broader strategy to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, with a focus on regenerating brownfield land. Central Docks was previously designated a New Homes Accelerator site, highlighting its national importance.
What is Liverpool Waters?
Liverpool Waters is a 30-year, multi-billion-pound vision to transform 60 hectares of historic docklands along the River Mersey. The masterplan aims to create a world-class, mixed-use waterfront district, breathing new life into a vast, post-industrial area of North Liverpool and stimulating significant economic growth for the city region.
Funding the Transformation
The £71 million contract awarded to GRAHAM is the largest component of an £81.1 million total project cost. The financial structure demonstrates a significant public-private partnership aimed at accelerating housing delivery.
Peel Waters is making a direct investment of £25.9 million into the project. This is supplemented by a substantial £55.2 million contribution from Homes England, the government's housing and regeneration agency. This funding was provided through the Brownfield Infrastructure Land (BIL) grant programme.
Last year, Liverpool City Council's Cabinet formally agreed to accept the grant funding, acting as the accountable body for the funds on behalf of Peel Waters. This collaborative approach between the developer, national government, and the local authority has been crucial in moving the project forward.
"This appointment is a major milestone as it sets in motion a multi-million investment drive in one of the most important brownfield development sites in England."
A New Green Space for the City
At the heart of the Central Docks masterplan is the creation of Central Park, a new 2.1-hectare green space. This park will become one of the largest in the city, providing a focal point for the new community and a destination for visitors.
The park's design includes the planting of hundreds of new trees, which will enhance biodiversity and create a tranquil environment. It will also feature a range of facilities for the public, including:
- Modern sports and recreational areas
- Dedicated play facilities for children
- Spaces for relaxation and community events
The 2,350 future homes planned for Central Docks will be situated around this new park, offering residents direct access to high-quality green space. Peel Waters has confirmed that the housing will have a diverse tenure offering, including affordable homes, properties for rent and sale, and specialised accommodation for elderly residents.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Project Cost: £81.1 million
- GRAHAM Contract Value: £71 million
- Homes England Funding: £55.2 million
- New Homes Planned: ~2,350
- Central Park Size: 2.1 hectares
- Total Liverpool Waters Area: 60 hectares
Partnerships and Vision for the Future
Peel Waters has a pre-existing relationship with GRAHAM, having collaborated on other award-winning projects, including the Millers Quay residential development at the nearby Wirral Waters scheme.
James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters, commented on the appointment: "The appointment of GRAHAM is a major step forward in turning our vision for Central Docks at Liverpool Waters into more of a reality... it means we are gearing up to breaking ground to provide much needed infrastructure to enable more development plots and housing to come forward."
Alastair Lewis, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, added: “We’re delighted to be appointed as principal contractor on this landmark scheme for Peel Waters - reflecting our shared commitment to creating infrastructure and neighbourhoods that prioritise sustainability and community. This project will play a pivotal role in further regeneration of the docklands area."
With construction set to begin this autumn, Peel Waters is already in advanced discussions with development partners for several residential plots and is actively seeking new partners for the remaining opportunities within the neighbourhood.
Councillor Liam Robinson emphasised the project's catalytic effect: "The Central Docks site at Liverpool Waters has massive potential to deliver a housing scheme of significance... It will also act as a catalyst for our wider plans for north Liverpool, which will greatly help stimulate the housing sector in our city region."