Wirral Council is set to debate several options for regenerating Bebington Road in New Ferry, a street devastated by a gas explosion in March 2017. The explosion, caused by furniture shop owner Pascal Blasio, who was jailed for 20 years, injured more than 80 people and has hindered the town's recovery for nearly a decade.
Background and Challenges
A council report highlights that New Ferry's retail struggles reflect a national trend, but have been "exacerbated by the effects of the explosion, which has prevented the necessary recovery of the centre." The report also notes the town was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bebington Road has been pedestrianised for almost five years.
Three Regeneration Options
The council has allocated £5.5 million for the project. Three options will be presented to the environment, climate emergency, and transport committee. Option one, preferred by 83% of public consultation respondents, includes higher specification paving and bespoke features. Option two, recommended by officers, uses more maintainable and standardised materials, reducing capital and long-term maintenance costs. Option three is a basic scheme.
Officer Recommendation
Officers argue that while "option one reflects a preference expressed through consultation, it also introduces higher capital costs and increased long-term maintenance liabilities." The report reminds councillors that "consultation feedback is an important consideration, it is one of several factors that must inform decision-making," and they must consider "deliverability, affordability, long-term maintenance implications and the council’s overall financial position." Officers conclude option two is the "most balanced and sustainable outcome."
