Tesco’s Kirkby proposals on view

Plans for the redevelopment of Kirkby town centre will be on display at 24 St Chad's Parade during October.

Spenhill, the regeneration subsidiary of Tesco, has submitted a planning application for proposals to replace the failed Destination Kirkby scheme proposed by Tesco and Everton FC which was rejected last year following a public inquiry.

Spenhill's scheme proposes a Tesco Extra superstore, which has been reduced by 12% or 10,300 sq ft to 146,600 sq ft. The scale of the other retail units, around 90 in total, have been pegged back from 500,700 sq ft to 300,400 sq ft, a fall of 40% in total.

Knowsley Council is setting up a 'Kirkby drop-in shop' at 24 St Chad's Parade in the town centre, so the entire community can view the proposals, ask questions, and share their views on the following dates:

• Wednesday 20 October, 10am-3pm
• Thursday 21 October, 10am-3pm
• Friday 22 October, 10am-3pm
• Saturday 23 October, 10am-3pm

Nick Kavanagh, Knowsley Council's executive director of regeneration, economy and skills, said: "The people of Kirkby have always been clear that they want to play a part in the redevelopment of their town and we are keen to let them do that. We have already asked the community for their views on what they would like to see in a new and improved town centre and now we are giving them a chance to see the proposals that have been submitted to redevelop the town centre.

"The consultation, which will run for 4 days, will give everyone a chance to view the plans and see for themselves how their town centre could be developed. We have always been committed to the regeneration of Kirkby and in the current economic climate we are really encouraged to see companies like Tesco keen to invest in Knowsley."

The outline planning application includes offices, new public buildings including health centre and library, and a new petrol station. The proposal also includes improvements to highways, pedestrian and cycle routes and enhanced landscaping in the town centre.