Residents in Kirkby, Merseyside, have shared mixed opinions about their town centre and the key issues they believe need addressing. Knowsley Council purchased the town centre for £43.6 million in 2019 and has since delivered a 94,000 sq ft retail development, attracting names like Morrisons and Pure Gym, along with independent businesses.
New Developments Underway
As part of the regeneration, a new indoor play venue is set to open in September, and a Lidl is scheduled to open in 2027. Barratt and David Wilson Homes plan to build 800 one-to-four-bedroom homes on a brownfield site on Cherryfield Drive, contributing £7.7 million to local infrastructure.
Resident Perspectives
Joe Burkert, 83, who has lived in Kirkby since 1953, said he only visits the town centre "when he has to." He noted improvements but lamented the lack of a proper layout. "Everything used to be all over the place," he recalled.
Domino's Pizza is set to open a store on June 20, joining a growing fast-food lineup including McDonald's, KFC, Popeyes, Wendy's, and Taco Bell. Some residents criticized the concentration of fast-food outlets as "ridiculous," but Burkert said they don't affect him: "Things have got to change. The shops closing down need replacing, and these fast-food places might give kids somewhere to go."
Katherine Williams, 41, a lifelong resident who works in the town centre, expressed frustration: "The amount of fast-food places is ridiculous. We need restaurants and places to drink, not more fast food. The town centre used to be brilliant; now it could be knocked down and rebuilt. When I was younger, I came with my nan twice a week. Now there's nothing." She added that 800 new homes are being built without amenities, likely causing traffic issues.
A Knowsley Council spokesperson responded: "The delivery of approximately 800 new homes next to Kirkby town centre is a key part of our long-term vision. Increasing the local population will support existing businesses and attract new investment. Transport and traffic impacts were carefully considered, and measures to improve accessibility will be delivered alongside the development."
Sandra and Peter Holmes, from Lydiate, visit Kirkby once a month. Sandra, 79, said: "We like the food options and varied shops. The fast-food places don't bother us; it's friendly with good shopping."
Trisha McDonald, 62, a Kirkby resident, recalled the old market: "It used to be rammed, everything under one roof. It was second to none, but now it's a ghost town. It was buzzing in rain or snow. I understand why fast-food places have opened—they provide employment—but it's not healthy. There are no healthy options. All high streets look the same now; Kirkby has lost its individuality."
A council spokesperson added: "We are aware of the challenges facing town centres nationally. As a landlord, we keep rental levels under review. We acknowledge concerns about the concentration of certain food outlets and use planning policies to consider applications for new takeaways carefully. We are committed to promoting healthier lifestyles and a balanced range of options."
Pat Wallace, 66, a five-year resident, said the town centre has worsened: "There are no big shops, and shops keep closing. I like McDonald's, but I'd prefer more clothes shops." Margaret Ferguson, 71, added: "I don't understand why we have so many fast-food places when we don't even have a shoe shop. It's rubbish."
A dog-walking resident commented: "The fast-food issue isn't just Kirkby; shops are being turned into big chains everywhere. Little shops have had their day, but that doesn't mean we should have nothing but fast food."
The council concluded: "We recognise business sustainability is influenced by footfall and consumer habits. Through the regeneration programme, we aim to create a more attractive environment with a diverse mix of uses. The Pride in Place programme has allocated £19.5 million to Kirkby, and two consultations informed the Kirkby Regeneration and Investment Plan, approved by the Government, focusing on a vibrant town centre, safe neighbourhoods, and empowering people."
