Wirral Council has unveiled an ambitious proposal for the Dock Branch neighbourhood, which could see the construction of up to 1,200 homes. This development is set to be situated alongside an old railway line in central Birkenhead, which the council envisions transforming into a public park.

This initiative is a pivotal component of the Wirral Council’s Birkenhead 2040 framework, aiming to rejuvenate Birkenhead with a series of developments. The broader vision encompasses the addition of 21,000 homes to accommodate an estimated 46,000 residents, setting Birkenhead apart with a unique and appealing housing proposition.

Public feedback is currently being gathered in the second phase of consultations, which will continue until December 1. The park, while related, is being treated as a distinct project.

Initial consultations highlighted public desires for amenities such as street lighting, cycle lanes, wide pavements, pedestrian crossings, and bus stops. The aim is to foster a neighbourhood that seamlessly integrates with the town centre. Additionally, the community emphasized the importance of schools, employment opportunities, and dependable public transport.

Ben Morrison, senior development manager at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, commented on the project’s potential, emphasizing the need for community engagement and collaboration to ensure its success.

The proposed homes, expected to be delivered within the next 5 to 15 years, will comprise a diverse mix of houses, maisonettes, and apartments. The breakdown includes 35% one-bedroom, 35% two-bedroom, and 39% three-bedroom or larger residences. The development also plans to incorporate over 8,000 square meters each of commercial and industrial space, along with over 13,000 square meters dedicated to car storage.

Historical buildings will be preserved as part of the development, which aims to be environmentally conscious, striving for a carbon-negative impact. The council’s vision is to infuse life back into Birkenhead’s streets, maintaining the town’s characteristic scale while offering high-quality homes with shared amenities.

The development’s initiation is expected on lands currently owned by the council or in collaboration with potential partners. Site assessments might commence before this year’s end. Funding bids will be supported by the finalized plans, with the council playing a pivotal role in land acquisition, especially in the project’s later phases.

Despite financial challenges, the council is exploring innovative management models for the neighbourhood’s future, emphasizing collaboration across public, private, and third sectors.

The detailed proposals are available for public viewing on the council’s Have Your Say website. As of now, no specific developer appears to be attached to the project.