Maro to resubmit with mid-rise Brunswick Quay designs

Maro Developments is preparing to submit new plans for the controversial Brunswick Quay site in Liverpool two years after the original designs were thrown out after a public inquiry.

The new designs will feature eight cylindrical buildings ranging from eight to 15 storeys. These will contain 100,000 sq ft of commercial space and 300 apartments including three- and four-bedroom units for families as well as extensive social housing.

Maro, the property company of Matalan founder John Hargreaves, has teamed up with local registered social landlord Plus Housing to deliver the affordable housing element so as to avoid conflict with the area's Housing Market Renewal Initiative.

The Studio Egret West-designed scheme replaces proposals for a 60-storey tower designed by renowned Manchester architect Ian Simpson. The earlier application was approved at public inquiry but ultimately thrown out by then Secretary of State Ruth Kelly in 2006.

The new scheme has been designed with maximum carbon reductive qualities including onsite recycling, roof gardens and energy creation.

Maro is also working with Plus to develop social enterprises employing local people to manage the buildings and the surrounding public realm.

Keppie Massie is advising Maro. An application is expected by the end of August.