Works to transform Bootle’s canalside into a new events and entertainment space are now underway.
Sefton Council and its partners want the area, on Washington Parade, to become a new staple destination in the social events calendar this coming summer.
A section of land adjacent to Bootle Strand Shopping Centre is to be turned into a “vibrant space” to host a range of events this year.
Plans for the space, which sits alongside the Leeds Liverpool Canal, include a new food and drink offering and an urban garden.
The council says other enhancements will also improve the environment and open up the canal.
If restrictions allow, there’ll be a food and drink festival in the summer, and a Christmas market in December.
The work is part of wider plans, aimed at transforming the look and feel of the Bootle for residents, businesses and visitors, and improving the quality of life for the community.
Cllr Ian Maher, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “The plans for Bootle Canalside will transform the space in the interim; creating a multipurpose events space to kickstart the regeneration of Bootle Town Centre
“The calendar of events will be diverse and exciting and after a long, hard year, it is great to be looking ahead to regeneration and recovery at the heart of one of our town centres.”
The project is being funded from the Combined Authority’s Town Centre Commission, and its Strategic Investment Fund.
Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Places like the Strand have always been at the heart of our communities – but too many of them have seen better days. Getting our town centres and high streets back on the up and making them somewhere local people can be proud of again has been one of my priorities.
“The last year has been a tough one, but we’re investing £1.65m to help Sefton Council with their plans to revitalise the area. Working together, we will breathe new life into Bootle Strand and make a hub for people to meet, shop and socialise once again.
