Funding approved for new scheme to transform Liverpool’s Fabric District

Liverpool City Council has approved £3.4m funding for a new scheme in the city centre located in the Fabric District, between the Knowledge Quarter and Lime Street.

And the historic sum could soon be doubled by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) pending approval of the scheme by the Council’s Cabinet.

A report to the Cabinet, tomorrow Tuesday (15 July) is seeking to confirm plans for a redesigned Monument Place, introducing dedicated bus-priority lanes and upgraded traffic signals on London Road – boosting service reliability on routes.

And thanks to the Section 106 funding, made up of monies collected from developments in the area and the match-funded LCRCA contribution, Monument Place will also be transformed into a high-quality district square with new paving, landscaping, rain gardens, seating and an event space – strengthening the Fabric District’s identity.

High-quality walking and cycling connections into Liverpool’s wider active-travel network will also be included. The funding and cabinet report comes as a public consultation on the scheme has been completed. Following the consultation, detailed designs will now be developed in collaboration with stakeholders.

The ambitious project combines the Metro network improvements with the Monument Place public realm works, in a partnership between the Council and LCRCA. 

To enable this joined-up delivery, Cabinet is set to approve a Section 8 Highways Act 1980 agreement granting LCRCA the powers to carry out highway improvements from Lime Street to Low Hill. 

Concept designs, developed jointly by Mott MacDonald and LDA Design, are now at RIBA Stage 2.

They were produced in collaboration with the Fabric District CIC through a series of stakeholder working group sessions.

The design team has also incorporated and built upon previous engagement undertaken by the Fabric District CIC.

Once delivered the scheme would complement plans to upgrade the St George’s Gateway which connects to this area of the city centre.

Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said:

“Monument Place and the Metro upgrades mark a major turning point for one of Liverpool’s most vital city-centre corridors.

“This project will deliver quicker, cleaner bus services alongside a beautifully reimagined public space that works for everyone – residents, visitors and businesses alike.

“This bold initiative demonstrates how combining smart transport with public realm improvements can fuel growth, cut emissions and create a city that’s easier to move around and healthier to live in.”

Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet member for Economy and Growth, added:

“I’m delighted that we have been able to make such a substantial Section 106 contribution to such a significant scheme.

“Thanks to this unprecedented funding injection we’ll be able to realise this imaginative and creative project, which will help transform the look and feel of the Fabric District and further improve its appeal to new investors.”

Simon O’Brien, Walking and Cycling Commissioner for the Liverpool City Region said:

“These are bold and exciting plans that will transform how people move between Liverpool city centre, the vibrant Fabric District, and surrounding areas.

“Improving walking, cycling, and bus links is about transport and much more – it’s about unlocking the full potential of this part of the city region, making it healthier, more connected, and more accessible for everyone.”

Find more information on the Liverpool City Council website.

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