Knowsley Council’s Cabinet has approved plans to progress the next phase of the ongoing regeneration of Prescot Town Centre.
The proposals represent an important milestone for Prescot Shopping Centre, bringing long-awaited improvements to transform the site into a modern, vibrant destination that will be benefit residents, businesses and visitors.
Knowsley Council bought the shopping centre site in 2022 to prevent further decline and to ensure the site would play a positive role in the town’s ongoing regeneration.
Working with preferred developer Cityheart over the past 12 months, the council has shaped an emerging vision to transform the site and continue to strengthen Prescot’s position as a thriving town.
A first phase of demolition, including the former Stephenson’s Printworks building and outdated sections of the centre, has already been completed, paving the way for the next stage of development.
Key elements of the proposed redevelopment include:
- A new library, museum and cultural space, to create a central hub for learning, community activity and visitors.
- Improved retail space closer to the high street.
- New open-air pedestrian routes, with 24/7 access between key areas of the town to improve safety and accessibility.
- Enhanced car parking facilities to support shops, services and future growth.
- Space for future new homes, including affordable properties to meet the local need for 1‑ and 2‑bedroom housing.
Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development commented:
“Prescot town centre has seen incredible momentum in recent years, with investment from the council, private developers, the opening of the iconic Shakespeare North Playhouse and the abundance of bars, restaurants and independent retailers. These new proposals represent an exciting opportunity to unlock Prescot’s full potential and to deliver an even more vibrant, modern and sustainable town centre that works for residents, businesses and visitors for years to come.”
James Litherland, Development Director at Cityheart, said:
“We see huge potential in Prescot as a fantastic place to live and visit with real character and a rich history. We are delighted to formalise our partnership with the Council and in the coming months we want to hear the thoughts of local people and businesses to help shape our plans moving forward. We know how important the town centre is to the community. That’s why our focus is on creating a place people can be proud of – new homes, great public spaces and community facilities that bring more life and opportunities into the heart of the town.”
Cabinet approved an investment of £0.6m, from the Liverpool City Region’s Regeneration Capacity Building Fund, to progress the project to RIBA Stage 4 (technical design). This stage includes detailed design, planning work, construction preparation and further engagement and consultation.
Further public consultation will take place as the proposals are developed and refined.
Visuals to show how Prescot Town Centre could look:
