Buro Happold to lead Liscard public realm redesign

Wirral Council has appointed the engineering firm to craft a new vision for the public spaces within the town centre as part of a £11m regeneration programme.

The £225,600 contract is funded through the council’s Local Regeneration Fund.

Buro Happold will now commence surveys and site investigations in order to bring forward a RIBA Stage 4 detailed design for Liscard and to prepare tender documents for the construction needed to bring those designs into reality. The council had already worked to bring the work to RIBA Stage 2, but lacked the in-house expertise to progress the scheme further.

“Liscard is a key town centre for Wirral and the appointment of an experienced design team is a significant milestone in moving our regeneration plans forward,” said Cllr Mark Skillicorn, the lead for economy, regeneration, and housing.

“The public realm improvements will help create a more attractive and accessible town centre that supports local businesses, encourages more visitors and provides a better experience for everyone who lives, works and spends time in Liscard.”

Buro Happold’s appointment follows the council’s decision to sell the long-vacant Dominick House in Liscard to the owners of the nearby Cherry Tree Shopping Centre. Wirral Council is also on the hunt for a development partner to deliver 100 affordable homes in the town.

Meet the movers and shakers of the Merseyside development scene. Book your ticket to Liverpool City Region Development Update.