The redevelopment of Great Homer Street Market could pave the way for significant regeneration in the Scotland Road and Everton area.
Up to £20 million worth of funding is being sought for plans which would see the market expanded into vacant buildings on the edge of the current site. The buildings are owned by Liverpool City Council, which operate the historic market, and could provide space for new for traders and what is being billed as a ‘community market’
The plans form one of the two Levelling Up Fund [LUF] bids that were submitted by Liverpool Council to the Government in the summer. The other focuses on the ‘Paddington South Innovation zone'', according to council documents, and asks for £20m to help stimulate the area’s growing materials chemistry and life science sectors.
READ: 'Last chance' for historic market where traders are 'hanging on'
In July it was noted that the works involved in The North Liverpool Regeneration Bid, which is centred on the plans for Great Homer Street Market, would cost in the region of £13m. However, council documents published in early September suggested that the full £20m is being sought from the Government fund - the maximum that local authorities can ask for in each prospective bid.
Away from expansion of the market, a council report states that the bid will also look to make a number of other improvements in the area. It said: “Other elements of the LUF bid include a new crossing and traffic calming measures on Scotland Road, an improved park and connectivity, and delivering housing improvements in the Vescock Street area.”
Significant changes have taken place along Great Homer Street in the last decade with the development of a new retail park and Sainsbury’s supermarket. If the bid is successful, the market could expanded into vacant warehousing between Dryden Street and Wilbraham Street.
Vacant buildings between Dryden Street and Rachel Street have also been earmarked for the regeneration of project. A decision on the successful bids is expected to be made in the autumn.
Last year Liverpool City Council was successful in bids focussing on the Pierhead and waterfront area. Funding went towards building a business case for a new arts and culture museum, with further funding going towards respective projects led by National Museums Liverpool and the Tate.
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