Future investment set to revitilise Kirkby Town Centre.

Recently, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has been asked to approve the remainder of a £15 million investment set to rejuvenate Kirkby Town Centre. If approved, it is set to revitilise the centre and paint it as Liverpool’s new sustainable travel hub.

The remaining sum of money totals to around £2 million of investment that would support the redevelopment of a multi-storey car park and new gate way into the town. This important development is necessary in uplifting Liverpool’s image, as it has been commented that Kirkby Town Centre is, on average, where visitors end up passing through.

Steve Rotherham, Mayor of Liverpool has said, “Kirkby’s revival over the last few years has been something of a renaissance. Having grown up in the area, I know the real, positive difference this investment is having on the Townie – and on people’s lives too.”

Following Liverpool’s plans on creating a net-zero future, the remaining funds would also develop long stay parking alongside electric vehicle charging units and cycle storage.

The funding is part of a wider scheme by the City Region Combined Authority to support employment and redevelopment of surrounding communities.

Tony Brennan, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development has commented, “I’m delighted that the remaining £2.2m has been recommended for approval for us to accelerate our plans to enhance the Kirkby gateway site.” Continuing on to say, “It’s many people’s first impression of the town so it’s essential that we create the right image for residents, visitors, businesses and investors alike.”

Previously, the Authority had provided £10 million alongside Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s investment of £33.8 million to purchase Kirkby Town Centre, with plans on developing the space into are tail and leisure area.

After the likes of a 45,000 sq ft Morrisons and 20,000 sq ft Home Bargains took ground, the Authority allocated £2.8 million to support development of a cinema, further expanding the proposed leisure area.

After gaining ground with the leisure development, the council predict the car park and gate redevelopment will attract new tenants to remaining buildings as well as new visitors. This will lead to a predicted 350-500 jobs for local workers.

Finally, Brennan continues, “I’m delighted with what has been delivered in such a short space of time and we will continue to build on these achievements and deliver even more for everyone who lives, works, visits or invests in Kirkby.”

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