Wirral Council to revitalise a central part of Seacombe

Ambitious proposals are being put forward to transform and revitalise a central part of the Seacombe area.

Based around the Grade II* listed Wallasey Town Hall the proposals are contained within the new Wallasey Town Hall Quarter Masterplan and Wirral Council aim to bring social and economic regeneration along the Seacombe River Corridor and attract new investment into the area.

The Masterplan being put forward for public consultation outlines possible options including a remodelled area around Wallasey Town Hall with a centralised plaza in front of the historic building.

It follows a recent successful funding application to develop brownfield land, approved in July 2023, which will enable works to begin on the demolition of the north and south annex buildings either side of the town hall, allowing development of this area to be kick-started.

In addition, the Department for Education is supporting the construction of a new Riverside Primary school, which is seen as further evidence of both government and local support for the regeneration and transformation of the area.

The proposals being put forward in the Town Hall Quarter Masterplan would see Guinea Gap leisure centre remain until funding can be obtained to build a new facility, potentially on a site next to the new Riverside Primary School. This will allow continuity of service for local leisure facilities while funding is sought for a new centre which could be designed to offer sports as well as health and well-being services.

Another key proposal within the Masterplan is the improvement of Brighton Street. This is the main vehicle and pedestrian route connecting New Brighton and Seacombe ferry terminal. However, its size and width can be seen to divide the neighbourhood restricting movement of residents travelling towards the promenade. Changes such as new road crossings and tree planting at key locations will help redefine routes for existing residents who regard the road as a barrier.

Wallasey Town Hall Credit: Wirral Council

Chair of Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee, Cllr Tony Jones, said:

“It was clear when we initially asked people about how they see the future of Seacombe that they want change. Those who took part left no doubt that Seacombe needs targeted investment to address and reverse the years of steady decline.

“The ideas in this Masterplan are intended to show how we can help Seacombe become a more prosperous and attractive place to live and work. We want to build on its many positive attributes and fantastic location. Seacombe has a long history, apparently even being referenced in the Domesday Book, and our aim is to see this community continue and be vibrant long into the future.

“However, this can only be done in partnership with the local and wider community, to ensure that this is an inclusive process that works both for existing residents as well as those wishing to move to the area. So I would urge as many people as possible to get involved in this consultation, tell us what ideas you like and what you would like to see changed and use this chance to have your say.”

People can take part in the consultation online via the council’s HaveYourSay website haveyoursay.wirral.gov.uk/ where there are more details of the proposals and ideas being put forward including the full Masterplan.

This consultation will be open for responses until December 7.