The plans of Sefton Council to demolish a minor segment of Bootle Strand have received approval.
Work can commence to unlock the Strand’s potential upon approval of the plans, which would involve the conversion of portions of the centre into additional public spaces.
Work on the original buildings and their structures will achieve this, instead of resorting to large-scale demolition and redevelopment. The start of the work is scheduled for early next year.
Currently, design work is being carried out for the redeveloped shopping centre; an extensive planning application is expected to be published in the near future.
Before submitting the new plans early next year, residents will have the opportunity to comment on them. During the design and building process, the project team will take these comments into account.
The Strand, which was recently granted £20 million by the Government’s Capital Levelling Up Fund, is to be developed in the following ways: by introducing additional green spaces to Bootle and incorporating new leisure, education, and health services; all while maintaining a retail offering in the town centre.
Stanley Road, Salt and Tar, and Washington Parade will be connected through the creation of new public spaces and routes.
In addition to attracting more people to Bootle, the council’s plans for The Strand, which include retail areas and a focus on the community, will generate new employment opportunities and pathways for locals.
Cllr Ian Maher, Leader of Sefton Council said:
“We have high ambitions for Bootle and I am delighted that we are moving forward with our plans to make our vision a reality.
“By removing a small part of the existing building, we can make way for the revitalisation of the centre with attractive public spaces, which meets the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.
“By broadening the use of space in the town centre, retail will continue to occupy the majority of the space, but we will also be introducing dedicated space for education, health and social care uses. We will also be improving the leisure and hospitality opportunities, and developing further community, cultural and creative spaces.
“Through our regeneration plans, we aim to create a flourishing town centre, which caters to the needs of Bootle and its community.”
Next year, The Strand will remain accessible to the public during the demolition process. Further details and conceptual illustrations regarding the redevelopment are available at a designated information centre situated along the Strand. The adjacent unit to Specsavers displays a conceptual schedule of the undertaking extending until 2030.
People can find out more about the Bootle Strand scheme on the website.
READ MORE: REVAMP OF LIVERPOOL’S HISTORIC ROPEWALKS DISTRICT COMPLETED
