This area of West Derby has not always been a residential area and since the turn of the century has grown exponentially in line with the increased demands of an ever-growing population. We understand that this growth has brought with it challenges – namely an increase in number of cars per household, increased traffic levels and ultimately congestion.

As a future-focused Group, we are working with experts to conduct a thorough, up-to-date survey of traffic in the area. When designing proposals for the site, we will aim to reduce pressure on existing routes as much as possible and will be including ample parking spaces into the development’s design, as well as incorporating multiple access points and routes through the site to improve the flow of traffic, especially at peak times.

As a Group, we are committed to reducing carbon emissions across our heartlands so will be actively designing the site with public transport and low-carbon transport options in mind.

We are also exploring housing options which are tailored to the needs of individuals who typically don’t own vehicles, such as housing for older and more vulnerable individuals.

We understand that flood risk is a concern across West Derby. We have already employed a technical team to review and assess the site so that any development built doesn’t add to this problem further. We are currently exploring self-contained and sustainable draining options, which we would look to incorporate into the final design for the site.

We will also be conducting our own, up-to-date survey of the area to mitigate this risk from the outset of the development.

Consultation is at the heart of any project we undertake and since buying the site in August 2019, we have been talking to residents of West Derby, local Councillors, organisations and businesses to understand the challenges felt by the people who live and work in the area.

As such, we are working to design the site to alleviate pressures on services such as GP Practices, local schools and public transport links and to provide opportunities to enable improvements to public services where we can. We don’t know what this will look like yet but are exploring multiple options such as incorporating self-sustaining Extra Care units on site or creating homes for first time buyers, young professionals or downsizers without children or long-term health conditions. By developing a range of housing options, we will work to reduce pressure on local services.

Currently, the public does not have access to Melwood facilities and the site, as it stands, is inaccessible to the residents of West Derby. We are working hard to understand how these facilities could best be used by the community and are having exploratory discussions with several groups and organisations.

Whatever the extent of existing facilities that are retained, we are keen that the development will be of significant benefit to the local community and could increase access to green space, health and wellbeing opportunities and create a sustainable new environment on the site.

We understand the opportunity the facilities available on-site present so are also open to hearing from organisations who wish to submit a proposal for how to use them as part of this new development.