A new Sports Direct sign installed on the historic Compton House on Church Street has prompted a mixed reaction from Liverpool residents. The Grade-II listed building, formerly home to Marks & Spencer for 95 years, is the new flagship location for the sports retailer, and the modern branding on its classical facade is now a topic of public debate.
Key Takeaways
- Sports Direct is moving from Liverpool ONE to the former M&S building, Compton House, on Church Street.
- A new Sports Direct logo has been placed on the facade of the historic Grade-II listed building.
- Public reaction is divided, with some praising the building's new use and others criticizing the sign's appearance.
- The new 70,000 sq ft store is set to open on Friday, October 17, following the closure of the Liverpool ONE branch on October 16.
Major Retail Move to Church Street
Sports Direct is finalizing its relocation from Liverpool ONE to one of the city's most recognisable retail landmarks. The brand, which was an original tenant of the Liverpool ONE complex since its opening in 2008, is moving into Compton House on Church Street.
The Liverpool ONE store on North John Street is holding a closing sale, with its final day of trading scheduled for Monday, October 16. The new, much larger store will open its doors just days later on Friday, October 17.
This move follows the acquisition of Compton House by Frasers Group, the parent company of Sports Direct, in 2023. The group also owns other major brands including House of Fraser and Jack Wills. The acquisition came after Marks & Spencer vacated the building in August 2023, ending a 95-year residency to move to the former Debenhams site in Liverpool ONE.
A New Era for Compton House
Compton House is a Grade-II listed building with significant architectural and historical importance in Liverpool. Its occupation by Frasers Group marks a new chapter for the landmark, transforming it into a modern retail and fitness hub. The plan includes a 70,000 sq ft Sports Direct flagship store and a proposed 23,000 sq ft Everlast Gyms facility.
New Signage Sparks Public Debate
The installation of a large Sports Direct logo on the building's exterior has become a focal point for discussion. Placed prominently below the classical statues that adorn the facade, the modern branding has elicited strong opinions from the public, which were shared widely after a photograph was posted online.
The debate centres on the balance between commercial necessity and the preservation of the building's historic character. While some residents see the new sign as an unavoidable part of bringing a major retailer to the site, others feel it detracts from the architectural integrity of the landmark.
Support for Saving a Landmark Building
Several residents have expressed pragmatic support for the new development, focusing on the positive aspects of the building being occupied and renovated. They argue that without a major tenant like Sports Direct, the historic structure could have fallen into disrepair.
One commenter, David George, noted, "If it wasn’t for Sports Direct that gorgeous building would have gone to rack and ruin and ended getting pulled down." This sentiment was echoed by others who are pleased to see the building in use.
"At least it’s occupied now and having spent years and probably millions on renovations, they will more than likely stay for a while."
Another local, Jordan Green, pointed out that branding on the building is not new. "I think they are just following M&S by adding a sign. There use to be one there beforehand for M&S," he commented, suggesting a historical precedent for commercial signage on the property.
Criticism Over Aesthetic Impact
Conversely, a significant portion of the online reaction has been critical of the new sign. These comments focus on the perceived clash between the modern, bold logo and the building's classical architecture.
Karen, another commenter, stated her view plainly: "It’s shocking, there is no need to put a sign up there." Another resident, David Whittle, simply wrote that the building had "sold its soul."
Store and Gym Details
- New Store Size: 70,000 square feet
- Proposed Gym Size: 23,000 square feet (Everlast Gyms)
- Previous Occupant: Marks & Spencer for 95 years
- Building Status: Grade-II listed
The original person who shared the photo online expressed strong disapproval, writing, "They are taking the p*** now. Sports Direct take it down you are spoiling the old Marks building." This highlights the emotional connection many locals have to the city's architectural heritage.
Frasers Group's Vision for Physical Retail
The move is part of a wider strategy by Frasers Group, which has been investing heavily in high-street locations. At the time of the acquisition, the company's head of acquisitions, James France, emphasised their commitment to brick-and-mortar stores.
"We are big believers in physical retail and this acquisition marks an exciting time for the group as we continue to expand our store portfolio across the UK and Europe," France said in a statement last year.
He added that the goal was to bring Liverpool a "next-generation sports retail experience" featuring the world's biggest sports brands. The inclusion of a large Everlast gym, subject to planning approval, is also part of this strategy. In recent weeks, Everlast promotional teams have been active outside the Church Street location, engaging the public with challenges to win discounted memberships ahead of the opening.