The city council is moving forward with the creation of a ‘new town’ – with initial plans for housing developments in parts of the city
A major housing plan will be focussed around Great Homer Street Market and nearby areas (Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
A major plan to create a huge new town development called ‘Liverpool North’ is moving forward, with key new proposals for housing-led regeneration in parts of the city set to be given the green light.
A major project at Vescock Street and Limekiln Lane and including parts of Greatie Market and Scotland Road will bring forward delivery of a “comprehensive newbuild housing development, creating much needed new homes and wider placemaking improvements in the area”, according to Liverpool City Council.
If the plans are approved by the council’s cabinet on Tuesday December 16, they will see the council work with Aviva Capital Partners as lead investment partner to fund a Build to Rent (BTR) scheme alongside affordable homes delivered by Torus.
The plan is for around 130 new homes to be created on Vescock Street/Limekiln Lane. This will include approximately 105 Build to Rent homes, with Aviva Investors managing the dedicated fund from launch.
A further 25 Rent to Buy homes will be built for and managed by Torus. On the Central Tin site next to Greatie Market, Torus will carry out a feasibility study with the aim of building up to 30 affordable homes.
The scheme will see the demolition of poor-quality buildings, and landscaping and connectivity upgrades. The new housing will be complemented by improvements made to the wider area including;
public realm enhancementsbetter walking and cycling linksimproved streets and spaces
The council says this investment will help support local businesses around the Greatie Market and create a “safer, more attractive neighbourhood for residents.”
Subject to the usual approvals and statutory processes, the council’s partnership arrangements will “enable delivery at pace.”
This project forms part of Liverpool North New Town project – a community focused programme for improving neighbourhoods and delivering new and upgraded housing, including Vauxhall, Everton, Anfield and Kirkdale.
The council is moving forward with its own plans for Liverpool North after being snubbed by government in a national scheme.
In September, the government awarded new town status to a shortlist of 12 locations, but the Liverpool North application did not make the list.
While expressing frustration at that decision, Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram and Liverpool Council leader Liam Robinson vowed to continue with local plans for the new town.
Speaking about the latest developments, Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, said: “Vescock Street/Limekiln Lane is a pivotal early phase that brings forward new homes and high quality placemaking where the city most needs it.
“By combining institutional Build to Rent investment with affordable housing from Torus, we are unlocking delivery in an area that has historically struggled to attract private capital – setting a new standard for neighbourhood renewal in the north of the city.”
Managing Director of Torus Developments, Chris Bowen, said: “We’re proud to work with the council to deliver affordable, well managed homes that meet local needs.
“Alongside the wider regeneration of North Liverpool, Scotland Road and the Greatie Market area, this programme aims to create a more balanced, sustainable community. This is an exciting opportunity showcasing what can be achieved in this part of Liverpool.”