FAQs

We previously consulted on the RIBA 2 stage of the regeneration plans, since then we progressed the proposals further with further detailed design. This engagement is to provide an update on these changes.

The regeneration works have progressed as an interconnected plan, with the ambition of delivering an enhanced Waterfront and Surrounds area for both residents and visitors alike.

The focus of this round of work is to enhance the active travel and pedestrian experience for those who use the space. Connectivity between each of the character areas will also be greatly improved, helping to develop each of the areas into more vibrant spaces.

The main feedback received during the previous consultation identified five areas where improvements are required to improve the Waterfront and Surrounds area.

You can find out more about what features we have implemented to address these areas on the ‘You said, we are listening’ boards on the consultation website or at our exhibition events.

Wirral Council, in partnership with Sisk and Pell Frischmann, is driving the redevelopment of Birkenhead Waterfront and its surrounding areas.

This project is funded by various funding pots including the Towns Fund and Levelling Up Fund from the UK Government and Wirral Council.

Every effort to retain existing trees is to be taken, however in certain scenarios some removals may be necessary. If it is found necessary to remove a tree the Council will ensure that appropriate replacements are based on a site related arboricultural assessment that takes places in line with the Councils Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy, with between 2-8 trees planted per tree lost (depending on the size of the removed tree).

It is anticipated that as part of this scheme there will be net gain in trees, with dozens more trees along the route than there were previously.

All traffic regulation order changes will be subject to a separate statutory consultation exercise during early 2025.

Yes, the tram will continue to offer a service to connect Woodside and the current depot (Transport Museum).

Shared public spaces, such as parks and town squares. Essentially any area used by the public which is not privately owned.

Upgrade works are proposed at Woodside Ferry Terminal The proposals include the removal and replacement of existing passenger bridge and pontoon. A more welcoming and spacious ferry landing will be delivered as part of the proposals. As part of the waterfront regeneration project we are also proposing to introduce a new events space adjacent to the building. This will open up the Terminal further as a focal point on the Waterfront.

The existing gyratory will be reconfigured to incorporate high-quality public realm, whilst the existing road will be changed to include a new two-way carriageway along the western side of the existing gyratory. Improved pedestrian, cycling and bus facilities will also be incorporated.

Yes, the existing Woodside bus terminus will be repositioned and reconfigured to the south of its current location to an area currently occupied by the Woodside Approach car park.

Hamilton Triangle is a new pedestrianised plaza located adjacent to the station entrance, which is currently hardstanding, towards Woodside Cultural Park. This will be a transitional space between the two areas, acting as a gateway to the Waterfront and welcoming visitors to the area. This new green area will allow visitors to take a breath, orientate themselves, and enjoy the view across to Liverpool.

A new two-way segregated cycle track will be provided along the southern side of Hamiton Street and Hamilton Square North. The pavement on the south side of Hamilton Square North will be separated from the cycle track by a linear rain garden.

This cycle path will run to Hamilton Triangle, through to Woodside Culture Park via a new crossing feature being installed over the realigned Chester Street.

A zebra crossing will also be provided to cater for the pedestrian desire line between the diagonal footpath through Hamilton Square Gardens and Hamilton Square Station.

The Hamilton Square North / Hamilton Street mini roundabout will be replaced by a T-junction whereby motorists heading northbound from the pay & display parking bays will be required to give way to those joining Hamilton Street North from Hamilton Square.

A one-way eastbound restriction is proposed for the northern side of Hamilton Square with associated road narrowing.

The stretch of Hamilton Street between Bridge Street and the existing gyratory will be repurposed to create a larger area of public realm. Traffic travelling along Hamilton Street past Hamilton Square station will be directed onto Bridge Street. The existing one-way system along Bridge Street at its junction with Hamilton Street will be reversed.

The existing parking arrangement around Hamilton Square is to be retained, except for several current pay & displaying parking spaces which will be replaced with a bus stop bypass.

The parking between the existing roundabout and Birkenhead Cenotaph is to be retained.

 Overall, the quantity of parking is to remain consistent, including the provision for blue badge holders at the eastern end of Hamilton Square.

The bus stop layby on the eastern side of Hamilton Square adjacent to the John Laird monument will be modified slightly to accommodate both bus operations and short stay parking. However, this will remain relatively similar to its current position and condition.  

The existing bus stop opposite Douglas Street along the western side of Arygle Street will be relocated to Hamilton Square between its junctions with Cleveland Street and Price Street.

A new two-way cycle way will be installed along Argyle Street’s western side, separated from road users by a suitable buffer comprising raingardens and trees.

Zebra crossings will also be introduced to improve pedestrian connectivity. The existing signal-controlled pedestrian crossings at the Cleveland Street and Price Street junctions will be upgraded to include toucan facilities.

Yes and the junction shared with Argyle Street will be converted into a priority-controlled junction to improve safety for pedestrians at the crossing.

Improved paving will be installed along Argyle Street, including pavement widening which will provide opportunities for cafe/culture spill-out.

In line with the future lighting strategy for the wider area existing lighting will be improved to create a more welcoming and navigable space, supplemented by new lighting where appropriate.

Opportunities to plant new greenery will also be explored wherever possible. 

CYCLOPS stands for Cycle Optimised Protected Signals. The unique design of the CYCLOPs junction completely separates pedestrians and cyclists from motor traffic at junctions, reducing the possibility of collisions or conflict.