Enabling works kick off at £80m Parkside phase

Contractor JF Hunt has begun a £15m programme to prepare the way for the Newton-le-Willows project’s 800,000 sq ft first stage.

The enabling works programme includes the design, construction, validation, completion and defect rectification of site clearance works. It will also include earthworks to form development platforms, as well as highways, drainage, service distribution and landscaping works.

JF Hunt’s appointment by Parkside Regeneration, the joint venture between St Helens Council and Langtree, follows a competitive tender. “We were very impressed with J F Hunt’s commitment to the principles of social value, which have always been a key focal point for us,” said Malcolm Jackson, managing director of Langtree.

The company said it expects up to 25% of its external spend will be with local contractors.

Cllr Kate Groucutt, deputy leader and cabinet member for business & inclusive growth at St Helens Council, said: “It is really exciting to see works getting underway on the first phase development at Parkside.

“Development of the Liverpool City Region Freeport site at Parkside will create long term benefits for our local economy and will bring thousands of new jobs and new opportunities for our residents.

“As a council, and as a partner in the Parkside Regeneration joint venture, we are committed to ensuring that the residents and businesses of Newton-le-Willows, St Helens Borough and the wider region are benefitting from access to new opportunities, not just upon completion but throughout the development process and JF Hunt’s commitment to social value aligns directly with the aims of our inclusive growth strategy.”

JV members and stakeholders gathered on site. Credit: via Merrion Strategy

John Downes, executive chair of Langtree, added: “We’re at the business end of things now.  This is where we deliver on our commitment to the community that we’ll bring high quality jobs to the area and create real opportunities for local people.

“It’s the culmination of many years’ hard work and great credit is due to everyone involved.  We’ve kept the local community abreast of what we’re doing throughout, and will continue to do so.”

Following completion of the enabling works programme, construction of three fully consented logistics units will begin, following a competitive tender process to appoint a main works contractor.

The funding package for the enabling works contracts includes loan support to Parkside Regeneration LLP from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

St Helens’ planning committee resolved to grant planning permission in February for the 1.6m sq ft second phase of the Parkside project, which includes consent for manufacturing uses.

A £60m link road, joining the site to Junction 22 of the M6 motorway, was opened in May 2025.