Liverpool Council is set to market the 55-acre Stonebridge Cross site in Croxteth for a mixed-use development led by employment uses, reducing the number of homes from 1,200 to around 220. The site, off the East Lancashire Road (A580), was acquired by the council from Homes England in 2014.
Shift from housing to employment
In March 2021, plans were agreed to build 1,200 homes on the site, with hopes of submitting an outline planning application a year later. However, cabinet documents reveal that updated evidence since 2019 indicates strong demand for employment floorspace, prompting a shift to a 70-30 split in favour of employment uses. The site is described as "one of the city's largest remaining development opportunities" and well placed to support new employment space, housing and wider regeneration benefits.
Market testing and location advantages
The council says market testing and employment land evidence show strong demand, and the site's access to the port, city centre and motorway network makes it suitable for modern industrial, logistics and manufacturing uses. The housing element, indicatively 220 homes, should provide a mix of tenures and property types, including social and affordable housing, to relieve affordability challenges in the city.
More realistic approach
The move away from a sole housing scheme is described as "more realistic and deliverable than seeking a single specialist use" and gives the council the best opportunity to attract credible occupiers and deliver jobs for the local area. Subject to cabinet approval next Tuesday, a specialist marketing agent will be appointed to promote the site and secure developer interest. The council prefers an overall comprehensive approach but may accept bids based on the 70/30 split.
