A new-look high street in Anfield has received backing from the public following a series of consultation events in the area.
Dubbed ‘The Anfield Project’, the plans will see major improvements to Walton Breck Road, Robson Street and the junction of Oakfield Road and Houlding Street.
Residents have been able to view plans in the Gladstone Conservatory in Stanley Park and the Anfield Project Office on Brunard Street since September.
Two days of talks were also set up in September with close to 200 people, – who were either residents or work in the area – attending and being quizzed on their opinions after viewing the proposals.
The initial draft for the project was submitted in 2014 after being given the go-ahead by Liverpool City Council in 2013. The £260 million regeneration scheme, which includes plans for retail, housing, green zones and a hotel, coincides with Liverpool Football Club’s recent Main Stand stadium improvements.
The first phase of work is already underway following the demolition of selected retail units, with wider work expected in set phases over the next three years.
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Ann O’Byrne, the Deputy Mayor of Liverpool, said: “Community feedback has always been a key part of the whole Anfield Regeneration project from its conception and it is really encouraging to see so much enthusiasm for the ongoing work.
“It is only through consultation and listening to feedback will the partnership be able to create a brighter Anfield for everyone who lives and works there.”
The consultation events found that local residents and workers in Anfield want to see housing and retail options improved as a priority.
Around 90% of responses said they strongly agree with the new retails plans, with 72% of those answers stating that they also agree with the idea of a box market place that would be available on match day and through the working week.
Mark Tattersall, chair of Your Housing Group which is working on the project with the council, said: “Better homes, shops and transport links are the bedrock of any small community and it is good to know that we are on the right track in what we, with Liverpool City Council and Liverpool Football Club are developing in Anfield.”
“We are very pleased that residents in Anfield agree that the regeneration plans will vastly improve the area and we look forward to receiving further feedback that we will continue to take on board.”