Key landmark demolished as innovation scheme enters new phase

Key landmark demolished as innovation scheme enters new phase

Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter development, with an investment of £1 billion, is embarking on a new phase after successfully demolishing the Smithdown Lane Police Station, a significant landmark. The completion of this demolition has opened up new opportunities for development under a collaboration between Liverpool City Council and the University of Liverpool. Paddington South, supported by MHCLG funding, is the latest addition to the award-winning Paddington Village development, including the WELL Platinum standard rated Spine Building, Grade A office space, a multi-storey car park, and the Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village Hotel.

The primary objective of the Paddington South masterplan is to invigorate the city’s research, development, and innovation sector while establishing a lively new district that aligns with sustainable development principles. A key component of the 9-acre scheme will be the enhancement of public green spaces around Grove Street, with the aim of increasing biodiversity by 10% as part of the city’s broader urban green up initiative. Additionally, new active travel routes will be created to connect with the City cycle network, promoting sustainable transportation options.

Lead contractor Morgan Sindall Construction has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability by recycling and reusing existing materials from the Smithdown Lane Police Station. Through a partnership with local charity ReciproCity, furniture from the building was repurposed and donated to local charities and businesses, diverting over 250 office desks and chairs from going to landfills. Notably, previous infrastructure works at the Paddington Village Central site, including The Spine, The Novotel, and the MSCP, have already delivered £122.5m of social value for Liverpool, engaging with students, apprentices, and employment courses.

Various stakeholders, including Minister for Local Growth Alex Norris, Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson, University of Liverpool Vice Chancellor Tim Jones, and Knowledge Quarter Liverpool CEO Colin Sinclair, have expressed optimism about the project’s progress and its potential to drive innovation, economic growth, and job creation in Liverpool. Sustainability, community engagement, and the creation of a vibrant and environmentally-friendly urban space are fundamental aspects of this transformative development, marking a significant milestone in Liverpool’s journey to becoming a leading hub for research and innovation

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