Proposal hopes to invigorate Liverpool’s Lodge Lane with new jobs and businesses

A move to give the Lodge Lane area a boost by selling land is set to be proposed by Liverpool City Council, potentially creating up to 80 jobs.

A July 10 report submitted to the cabinet will recommend selling off four brownfield sites to create employment opportunities and attract businesses to the community.

This latest move follows a summit held in 2012 with the aim of stimulating business growth in the area.

Since the summit, the neighbourhood has seen an increase in investment, particularly in the food and retail sectors.

Now, the council hopes to attract a buyer to develop a pocket of land in Solway Street for mixed commercial and residential use.

Additionally, special vehicle firm Canco Limited has bid for land in Aspen Grove, Lime Grove and Grierson Street, proposing to use the plots to allow residents to operate their own businesses out of shipping containers. The development will be the first of its kind outside London.

According to the cabinet report: “[Canco Limited intends] to use clever design and place making to create a ‘funky’ intensely urban thriving street with wide appeal throughout south Liverpool that can become a visitor attraction in its own right.”

The member of the cabinet for regeneration and transport, Councillor Malcolm Kennedy, commented: “Lodge Lane is an up and coming area which is becoming one of the most vibrant shopping centres in the city.

“These new proposals will take its development a stage further, bringing new houses, commercial developments and jobs. It also gives local people the chance to start their own businesses and attract more investors into the area.”