More than 500 new flats could be built in one of Liverpool's historic former docklands in blocks reaching up to 13 storeys tall. Members of the city council's planning committee will be asked to sign off on plans for four interlinked tower blocks to house hundreds of new homes on Brunswick Quay, on the southern edge of the city centre.
It is the latest twist in the long-running hopes for the site over the past 20 years. When the land was first purchased in 2003, used as a property vehicle for Merseyside-born Matalan founder John Hargreaves, proposals were developed for a 51-storey tower block before proving not to be economically viable and thrown out by planning inspectors and the then Secretary of State.
Revised plans and current proposals
According to a revised design and access statement, more "modest" proposals were developed but these were then halted with the onset of the recession five years later. The new plans submitted in January, to build four blocks between eight and 13 storeys high, will feature a two-storey podium, providing 559 apartments and commercial floorspace, including a farmers' market.
The land, in the historic dock built almost 200 years ago, has been vacant for some time with planning permission originally granted back in 2020. Located next to Liverpool Marina, the island-site plan also includes new cafes and leisure spaces, a gym and a health centre as well as public access to the dock waters for paddle boarding and aquatic recreation.
Site details and legal background
It is accessed from Atlantic Way, which borders the site to the south. Brunswick Dock forms the eastern perimeter of the site. The River Mersey and the dock gate form the boundary to the west.
A report going to Liverpool Council's planning committee next week said: "The scheme would deliver 559 homes in a highly sustainable location, regenerate a prominent and long-underused waterfront site, and improve the public realm and active travel routes."
The application was lodged after applicant Romal Capital triumphed over Peel in a landmark High Court case over the latter's Liverpool Waters scheme at the city's northern docks. It was reported that Romal was likely to receive compensation of more than £10m after the judge allowed Romal's claim that Peel's actions caused it to lose a strong chance of obtaining planning permission for a waterfront scheme.
Parking and decision date
According to planning documents, the interconnected ground and mezzanine levels would be used for commercial spaces, residential entrances, public amenities and 263 car parking spaces and 397 cycle parking spaces with the potential to rise to 559 spaces depending on demand.
A decision is to be taken on the scheme on Tuesday November 17.
