Access concession could unlock 950,000 sq ft Liverpool industrial

A year after submitting plans for the redevelopment of the former Prinovis site in Liverpool, GB Europe has tweaked its proposals in a bid to allay concerns around traffic and get the scheme moving.

GB Europe’s plans for a 950,000 sq ft industrial unit to be occupied by Uniserve on the site of the 50-acre former printworks in Speke have been held up due to a disagreement about access arrangements.

The original application proposed a vehicular access to the site from Blackburne Street. However, the consultation process generated objections from locals.

As a result, GB Europe has removed the proposed Blackburne Street access. The site will now be accessed from Dakota Drive at two separate points.

A cover letter submitted by planning consultant Avison Young states: “Whilst we maintain that the original access solution is sound from a technical and planning policy perspective, we have listened to concerns from local residents about this access.”

An economic impact assessment published by Brookdale Consulting estimates the £96m scheme would generate £42m in business rates over 10 years.

The concession by GB Europe is the second victory in recent months for residents in the area.

Earlier this year, Liverpool City Council rejected plans for an open storage scheme off Blackburne Street due to concerns an increase in HGV movements would have a detrimental impact on the area.

The decision was taken against the advice of officers. Applicant Peloton Real Estate has appealed against the refusal.