In response to a question asked at Council on Wednesday 22 January 2024 relating to differential building costs in Kirkby and Huyton and whether Kirkby’s development was going to be left as an “unfinished project”, Cllr Tony Brennan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development confirmed that there aren’t any differences in building costs and that Kirkby is not an unfinished project.
Cllr Brennan said, “We are unapologetically ambitious when it comes to regenerating our town centres, and it is that ambition that has made Knowsley the place it is today – a place that is the envy of many. A place with multi-million-pound regeneration schemes in delivery across the borough as whole. Regeneration schemes that are backed up by robust and strong business cases, which are under continual review.
“The proposed cinema scheme for Kirkby, was not simply paused because there was a shortfall in funding, it was paused because the cost increases meant its business case was undermined.
“Over the last couple of years, the cinema industry has struggled financially with a number of operators sadly no longer in existence. Had the scheme progressed, it could have left the Council, and our residents, with significant financial liabilities.”
Members were also updated that there is a strong business case to deliver the ambitious plans for Huyton and that the Council is proactively seeking financial support to deliver this scheme.
Cllr Brennan added “Just to be clear it is not the case that it is Huyton at the expense of Kirkby or indeed Prescot or Halewood come to that matter. This Council is committed to delivering all of them, and our track record to date demonstrates that we will.
“I cannot be clearer that this council remains committed to delivering an evening economy for Kirkby and that economy will be strong and robust.
“Under my direction as Cabinet Member, officers are working tirelessly to deliver the right evening economy for Kirkby and sound progress is being made, so much so I am hopeful that in the coming months I will be in a position to make positive announcements in relation to both family leisure as well as a food and beverage uses for the town centre.”