Bootle Strand transformation gathers pace as demolition works continue

Work to partially demolish Bootle Strand is progressing well as the roof over the Palatine Mall Atrium has been fully removed, separating the Palatine Block from the rest of the shopping centre.

The old shop canopies along Stanley Road have also been taken down. The main demolition of the Palatine Block will begin soon, along with the removal of the old roof coverings from the Mons Square Canopy.

Work began earlier this spring and is now in full motion, clearing less than 40,000 square feet, approximately 9% of the existing site to make way for a new public square and modern spaces that will help reshape Bootle Town Centre.

To minimise disruption during demolition, a perimeter misting system has been installed to manage dust and vibration. In addition, monitoring systems are in place 24/7 to ensure the work has minimal impact on the local community and residents.

Importantly, Bootle Strand remains open as usual throughout the demolition, with all shops and businesses welcoming customers while work continues, and the Salt and Tar events programme for 2025 remains unaffected.

This latest phase is part of the wider Bootle Strand Transformation Project which aims to create a thriving town centre with welcoming public spaces, improved leisure and retail offers, better transport links and new opportunities for local businesses and residents.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:

“Since the initial concept design work commenced, we have been heavily focused on both environmental sustainability and positive social outcomes as central parts of the project.

“I am delighted to see such progress in relation to the reuse of demolition material and the minimisation of waste going to landfill.

“I am also pleased to see, even at this early stage, so many vacancies being filled by local people, and we look forward to seeing even more as the demolition and then the main works progress.”

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment, said:

“Seeing the demolition well underway is an exciting moment for Bootle. For generations the Strand has been central to our community and now it’s at the centre of our plans to create a town centre that’s fit for the future.

“Our focus throughout is on building a place that works for local people and businesses. While the demolition continues, shops and businesses remain open as usual, so we’re asking everyone to keep supporting them as we invest in Bootle’s future.”

Rob Symons, VINCI Building’s Contracts Manager said:

“This is a large and technically complex demolition project. We’ve spent a lot of time carrying out detailed surveys, preparing the building for demolition, and developing a safe and efficient demolition sequence.”

“Working in partnership with Sefton Council, minimising disruption to the project, local businesses and residents has been a top priority.

“Sustainability is central to our shared approach – all of the demolition arisings will be screened and segregated for recycling or for reuse in the next phase of works. By reducing vehicle movements and maximising material recovery, we’re actively lowering the project’s carbon footprint while delivering real value to the community.”

The project is backed by £20 million of Government funding alongside significant investment from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. Together this partnership is already delivering visible results such as the Salt and Tar events venue nearby, bringing big-name acts and thousands of visitors to Bootle, boosting footfall and community pride.

VINCI Construction UK is leading the demolition work, which is expected to continue into late 2025. In addition to creating new spaces, the project has already generated apprenticeship and training opportunities for local people and is helping to create new pathways into work through Sefton@Work.

Sefton Council continues to work closely with local residents, businesses and partners to make sure the transformation reflects what the community wants and needs, from new green outdoor spaces to improved connections with key destinations like the new Everton Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Sefton Council is encouraging people to stay up to date and to show their support for local businesses as the work continues.