Wirral regeneration project promises 60% of contracts to local firms

The Wirral Growth Company (WGC) is one of the largest public-sector led regeneration projects in the UK and is a joint venture between the council and Muse Developments.

The company was formed in February 2018, with profits from the developments to be split 50-50.

The project aims to build new homes, commercial, retail and leisure developments, bring new jobs to the borough and drive further regeneration in sites in the likes of Bebington, Birkenhead, Bromborough, Moreton and Seacombe.

This week shadow communities secretary Andrew Gwynne met the local authority’s leader Phil Davies and Wallasey MP Angela Eagle at Wirral Met College in Birkenhead.

Speaking at their meeting, Cllr Davies said they hope the project will give Wirral residents a bigger say in the provision of their services.

He said: ‘As well as keeping the council’s assets safely owned by the local authority, we have policies in place to “hire local, buy local” for 60% of all contracts.’

‘Our Labour-led council is also making sure the developments planned are to the benefit of local residents with affordable housing, retirement flats and extra care facilities all being developed in phase one.

‘And as Birkenhead town centre also needs significant investment, a fresh plan to develop a new market, upgrading the shops and restaurants as well as improve transport access and connectivity with the rest of Wirral is a priority scheme too.”

Andrew Gwynne MP said: ‘With the impressive development schemes planned in Wirral over the coming years, there is a need to ensure local people benefit from employment.

‘The Wirral Growth Company will be one of the UK’s largest public sector-led regeneration projects that will not only ensure the Labour council continues to deliver the services people rely on for years to come, but it will help create jobs and training opportunities for Wirral residents.’

Speaking in March, Liverpool City Region metro mayor Steve Rotheram said: ‘Wirral is an important part of the City Region and I welcome an initiative that will help to help realise the potential of its assets to deliver important regeneration priorities, creating jobs and opportunities for local people.’

The WGC is currently undergoing a period of consultation.