Wirral planning officers are recommending approval for scheme by housebuilder Persimmon to build 116 new homes close to the River Mersey. Tony McDonough reports

View of the site from Port Sunlight River Park. Picture by Tony McDonough

Housebuilder Persimmon Homes is expected to secure planning consent for a new development in Wirral on Thursday evening.

Wirral planning officers are recommending approval for the scheme that will see 116 new homes built on a 12-acre former industrial site in Bromborough. The site is close to Port Sunlight River Park.

Located in what has traditionally been an industrial area of Wirral, this land was previously occupied by Croda Chemicals but has been empty since 2009. Bromborough Dock is also close by and Dibbinsdale Brook runs alongside.

This development will comprise a mix of 16 four-bedroom houses, 49 three-bedroom, 33 two-bedroom, and 18 single-bed flats. 23 of the homes will be ‘affordable’ which means a rental or sale price no more than 80% of local market rates.

Nine of the homes are reserved as first homes, eight homes will be for social rent and a further six homes as affordable rent. The scheme also includes a riverside walkway, a play area, and an open public space.

In their report planning officers were enthusiastic about the benefits of the project. They say it would have a “transformative effect on the character of the area”.

They added: ““It creates an example of the best of Wirral, where urban proximity is only a short walk away from enjoyable outdoor play and green and blue open space.”

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The report also said: “Its sustainable location is substantially enhanced through the connection of the Wirral Circular Trail across the River Dibben Footbridge, and this will be available to all users, residents and visitors alike. 

“On-site affordable housing, whose need creates the benefit, is provided at 20%, with an acceptable tenure mix.

“Considering the site constraints, the proposal is well laid out and provides a sense of enclosure through the noise embankment and a sense of openness by the riverbank. It will transform the area into a residential enclave on the lower reach of the River Dibbin.”