Parry answers call for industry to help in New Ferry

Steve Parry, managing director of Liverpool-based Ion Property Developments, has pledged support for those affected by March’s gas explosion in New Ferry on the Wirral.

The offer comes in response to Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram’s announcement last week that the Combined Authority would commit £20,000 to the short-term relief fund for those affected, set up by local charity New Beginnings.

In making that announcement, Rotheram added that a long-term solution for the area is much-needed.

Parry, who lives locally to New Ferry, said: ‘We need to look at how New Ferry can become a vibrant, sustainable place for people to live, shop and spend their leisure time. New Ferry has suffered greatly from the growth of out of town retail parks which have influenced a change in shopping habits.”

Ion said that it will be able to contribute extensive expertise to devise a strategic masterplan for the area and offer support to public authorities involved in the regeneration of New Ferry.

Parry added: “We want to offer our help, advice and support to help turn this terrible disaster into a new beginning for New Ferry.

“As a regular customer, I know that some of the businesses destroyed in the blast such as Griffiths Butchers and Lan’s House Chinese restaurant were some of the most appealing and appreciated businesses in the town.”

The video below from the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service recorded in March shows the extent of the damage:

Latest on the explosion in New Ferry #Wirral https://t.co/Q8BkZkCxgK pic.twitter.com/Pe1MTVbmn6

— Mersey Fire (@MerseyFire) March 27, 2017