Birkenhead £1bn regeneration takes step forward

5-year transformation of Birkenhead town centre

Wirral Growth Company, a joint venture between Wirral Council and Muse Developments, has lodged plans for a 15-year transformation of Birkenhead town centre, creating office and residential space and a new market hall.

If the plans are approved, the first phase of development will bring forward two office buildings totalling 190,000 sq ft, which are anticipated to be on-site by the middle of next year.

The vision, which also proposes public realm improvements and leisure space, was first revealed last November.

A report to the council’s cabinet in February gave the joint venture the green light to draw up the plans for the scheme after approving a business case for the project.

The anchor site is Birkenhead commercial district, the plans for which include 280,000 sq ft of offices and 36,000 sq ft of retail, as well as the relocation of the market.

Birkenhead, Muse Developments, Wirral

Birkenhead commercial district

Talks about a new site for the market are ongoing. The vacant former M&S and B&M buildings are potential locations, the council said.

Later phases of the commercial district redevelopment could include 700 apartments and townhouses, a 110-bedroom hotel and a 300-space car park.

Muse as its development partner

Wirral Growth Company was formed in 2019 after the council selected Muse as its development partner the previous year, creating a 50:50 joint venture to deliver a long-term vision to regenerate the town.

Mike Horner, development director at Muse Developments, said: “It’s a proud moment for all associated with the growth company as we reach this significant milestone, which is the culmination of months of hard work.

A new vibrant vision for Birkenhead

“We’ve taken the thoughts of the community into consideration, which I hope they can see in the final masterplan. We’re committed to working with the council and all stakeholders as we bring forward a new vibrant vision for Birkenhead.”

Tony Jones, Wirral Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and growth, added: “This is a pivotal time for Wirral. [The council] has long harboured ambitions to see the borough fulfil its potential as a desirable destination for businesses to locate to, families to live and visitors to discover.”

AHR Architects is the masterplanner for the project, and Barton Willmore is the planning consultant.

A rare opportunity to redefine the heart of the town centre of Birkenhead

Greg Dickson, director at Barton Willmore, said that Wirral Growth Company’s plans represent “a rare opportunity to redefine the heart of the town centre”.

Gillespies is the landscape architect, Hannan Associates is the building services engineering and utilities consultant, and Curtins is the structural and civil engineering consultant and Walker Sime is contract administrator.

Related Articles you may like

Air Permeability and Natural Ventilation: Finding the Right Balance

When designing modern buildings, achieving the right balance between air permeability and natural ventilation is essential for ensuring energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort. Air permeability refers to a building’s ability to allow air infiltration through its envelope, which is influenced by materials, construction quality, and design. Effective natural ventilation utilises external air flow to regulate indoor air quality and temperature, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical systems. At Ratio Seven, we specialise in developing comprehensive solutions to optimise this balance, leading to healthier and more sustainable environments while complying with local regulations and standards.

What is an As Built SAP Calculation?

In this article, you will learn how to do the As Built SAP calculation. You will also learn about the On Construction Energy Performance Certificate, Predicted Energy Assessment and Air testing at the As-built stage. All of these factors are vital for achieving a high SAP rating. If you are looking for more information about these topics, check out the following articles. These will help you understand how to do the calculation and ensure that your building meets the current regulations.

Part A Building Regulations – Structure

The Building Regulations in the United Kingdom are divided into 16 sections and parts called ‘Approved Documents’. Although not legally binding, they represent the expectations of the Secretary of State and minimum standards required for compliance. There are other ways to comply, including relevant structural calculations, approved certificates, and approved literature. Many of these methods are also accepted by British and European standards. The Approved Documents provide more detailed information on compliance than just the regulations themselves.

AIR TESTING & SAP CALCULATIONS SPECIALISTS

01270 747311

NATIONWIDE SERVICE