£23m Maritime Knowledge Hub proposed

The grade II-listed former Hydraulic Generating Station in Wirral is the subject of a major £23m scheme to refurbish it into a knowledge hub for the maritime industry.An application for full planning permission has been submitted for the proposed Maritime Knowledge Hub at the landmark on Tower Road, Seacombe.The hub would form an integral part of the major 30-year regeneration programme at Wirral Waters and be a catalyst for investment.Located within the Four Bridges quarter of East Float, the proposals seek to restore the Hydraulic Generating Station to create a “contemporary and bespoke” building capable of “vibrant and active contribution to specialist maritime research and training opportunities”.The Maritime Knowledge Hub would include commercial office and workshop areas alongside a café and event space.The hub would aim to provide world-class facilities, specialist training and business development in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, Peel L&P, Wirral Council and Mersey Maritime.It would accommodate a marine technology centre, marine simulation and training centre, start-up business/incubator workspace, pontoons with access to the water’s edge and training vessels and a café and visitor portal.In a report prepared for applicant The Peel Group, Eden Planning & Development Ltd, said the proposed development will facilitate the “long-term future” of the heritage asset.”It will enable its continued contribution and connectivity to the maritime industry, helping to deliver new innovation in partnership with local education providers, involving the wider business and local community through use of the event spaces,” it added.”It is considered that the proposed development accords with the relevant saved policies within the adopted Development Plan and meets the technical requirements and development management policies identified.”