Tritax engages locals on plans for freight interchange and 8.2m sq ft of sheds
Located in Newton-le-Willows and forming part of the Liverpool City Region Freeport Zone, Intermodal Logistics Park North could create thousands of jobs and improve trade links locally and globally.
Tritax Big Box Developments has today launched a consultation on its plans to build a rail freight terminal and 8.2m sq ft of warehouse and industrial space across 500 acres in both St Helens and Wigan.
Designated by government as a nationally significant infrastructure project, the final decision on whether the plans go ahead will be taken by government, meaning the consultation is non-statutory.
However, Tritax is determined to involve locals in the development process.
View the consultation – https://www.tritaxbigbox.co.uk/our-spaces/intermodal-logistics-park-north/
David Travis, head of Tritax’s Manchester office, said: “We are committed to working with the local community and other stakeholders to inform the quality and design of the project as we go through the various stages of the consenting process and look forward to commencing our initial engagement with them over the coming weeks.”
ILP North would plug into the existing rail network, which provides east-west and north-south connectivity, and facilitate “a significant shift from road to rail freight to move goods in and out of the North West”, according to the developer.
The plot also encompasses the 221-acre Parkside East – a site that is part of the Liverpool City Region Freeport zone and was acquired by Tritax last year.
“The development of a strategic rail freight interchange at this location is an integral part of Liverpool City Region’s Freeport and is aligned with the UK Government’s target to increase rail freight by at least 75% by 2050; with potential to deliver a scheme of local, regional and national importance,” Travis added.
“It has been a long-held ambition of St Helens Council and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to bring such a development forward and we are delighted to be bringing their long-standing vision to fruition.”
The scheme could have knock on benefits elsewhere.
ILP North made headlines during the Labour Party conference last year when it was revealed that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram were working together to move the Freightliner rail terminal in Old Trafford to ILP North.
The deal has not yet been agreed, and Tritax has declined to comment.
The idea behind the relocation of the terminal is to open up the area around Old Trafford stadium for the delivery of around 20,000 homes, a new stadium, offices, and leisure facilities.
IPL North has the potential to generate 6,000 jobs and £170m a year in GVA for the regional economy.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said the project could be a “game-changer”.
“This is exactly the kind of investment we need to strengthen our position as a vital hub for trade and logistics. I’m particularly excited about the prospect of creating thousands of good, sustainable jobs.
“With its strategic location and the support of the Liverpool City Region Freeport, this project will help drive economic growth, improve connectivity, and open up new opportunities for local people.”
Cllr Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Council, recognises the “huge growth opportunities” IPL North presents.
“We have always recognised that this strategic site is of regional and national importance for both regeneration and the transition to net zero, given its unrivalled transport connections and Liverpool City Region Freeport Tax Site status.
“I would strongly encourage people to take part in the consultation, hear about the vision for this hugely important site and help influence its future outcomes.”
Savills, Frampton Town Planning, and Eversheds are advising Tritax.
presumably the planning value gain on the land will fund the freight interchange and this is ant another government handout
By OTTO
Growth baby growth
By Anonymous
Hope they preserve the Huskisson Memorial in the layout.
By George Stephenson