Step forward for Birkenhead Market proposals

Work to transform Birkenhead Market looks set to take a major step forward.Councillors at Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee have unanimously agreed to press ahead with developing plans for the market.No decision has been made on the new market location and a further report will be brought back to the committee in early 2024 for councillors to consider.The report said the recent proposals for a new Market at the House of Fraser site have been increasing substantially in cost, rising 25 per cent from initial estimates in 2021.Among the recommendations councillors agreed is for any additional work on the market proposals at the House of Fraser site to be paused while other options are considered.These include the potential relocation to the site on Princes Pavement which is part of the Grange Shopping Centre and owned by Wirral Council, as well as looking at St John’s Pavement site and refurbishment of part of the existing Market site.Cllr Paul Stuart, leader of Wirral Council, said: “The Market will play a key role in the regeneration of Birkenhead town centre, and we are working with traders, listening to what they and our residents want. The council is looking at the best options to ensure we deliver this.”Our ambitious regeneration plans for Birkenhead and the Left Bank area from New Ferry to Wirral Waters, Seacombe, Liscard and New Brighton will lead to transformational change, bringing employment opportunities and prosperity.”Local people, local businesses and our communities will be at the heart of these plans.”