- Part of masterplan to reshape the 1960s shopping complex
- £7.1m from Strategic Investment Fund approved by Combined
Authority to support phase one of the project
- Regeneration builds on success of neighbouring Salt and Tar
venue
Ambitious plans to transform Bootle Strand shopping centre have
today (Friday) taken an important step forward with the approval
of a £7m investment from the Liverpool City Region Combined
Authority.
As part of a broader regeneration of the town centre, Sefton
Council is aiming to breathe fresh life into the underused
complex at the heart of Bootle town centre, which it bought in
2017.
The project is backed by £20m of government funding alongside
significant investment from the Combined Authority and from
Sefton Council. The partnership is already delivering visible
results including the nearby Salt and Tar events venue, which has
brought big-name acts such as Tom Jones and thousands of visitors
to the area.
Partial demolition is under way with the removal of the Palatine
atrium roof and shop canopies, and space is being cleared for a
new public square. To unlock the wider transformation,
preparatory work is needed to secure the site and refurbish areas
set to remain open during reconstruction.
Members approved the award of £7.1m from the Strategic Investment
Fund at a meeting of the Combined Authority on 26 September - for
remedial works, relocating key tenants, refurbishing retained
areas with new public toilets and fitting out units for local
independent traders.
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said:
"For generations, the Strand has been at the heart of Bootle
– but like so many town centres up and down the country, it's
felt the impact of changing shopping habits, online retailing and
underinvestment. We're determined to put that right.
“This is about much more than bricks and mortar – it's about
giving Bootle the vibrant, thriving town centre the community
deserves. By working with Sefton Council, we're helping to unlock
the Strand's potential, attract new businesses and visitors, and
create a place that local people can be proud of once
again."
The Strand has been a central part of Bootle's identity and
economy since it opened in 1968 but shifting retail patterns and
a lack of diversification have contributed to its decline. The
proposed first phase of regeneration is intended as a catalyst to
build confidence in Bootle Town Centre, driving future private
investment.
Plans for regeneration gathered pace in March 2023 with the award
of £20m from the government, alongside previous Combined
Authority funding for the acquisition and demolition of vacant
assets adjacent between the Strand and the Canalside.
The first phase will see the refurbishment of the former M&S
building, partial demolition to create the new Mons Square, and
improved links to the Canalside area, home to Salt &
Tar.
The Combined Authority meeting passed a recommendation to give
the Executive Director of Investment and Delivery delegated
authority to approve the provision of £7.1m.
Sefton Council is working with residents, businesses and partners
to make sure the transformation reflects community needs – from
new green outdoor spaces to improved connections with key
destinations like the new Hill Dickinson Stadium and the proposed
North Liverpool – South Sefton new town.
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member
for Employment, Education and Skills, and leader of Sefton
Council, Cllr Marion Atkinson said:
"This investment is a vital step in delivering the ambitious
vision we have for Bootle town centre. The Strand has been at the
heart of our community for generations and these plans will
ensure it continues to play that role for decades to
come.
“We are creating a vibrant, modern destination that combines
retail, leisure and community spaces.
“Building on the success of Salt and Tar, which has already
brought thousands of visitors and major events to Bootle, and
with improved links to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, this
transformation will put Bootle firmly on the map as a place to
live, work, and enjoy.
“It's about creating opportunities, attracting investment,
and giving local people a town centre they can be proud of."
