Planning approval for 401-home Metalworks residential development
Planning permission was granted this morning (February 18) for Metalworks, a new £110m residential development in Liverpool’s Pumpfields district, designed by Falconer Chester Hall on behalf of Jarron Developments.
The scheme will transform a prominent site at the junction of Leeds Street and Vauxhall Road, delivering a 16-storey, residential building that will provide 401 homes, comprising 396 apartments and five townhouses, offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom properties.
The Build to Rent development will also include a cinema room, gym, co-working spaces, and rooftop gardens, including a running track.
At street level, the scheme has been designed to activate the frontage along Vauxhall Road, with retail and communal spaces that will bring vibrancy to the streetscape.
Inspired by the site’s industrial heritage, Liverpool-based Falconer Chester Hall said the red brick façades, bronze aluminium detailing, and large windows provides strong architectural identity while respecting the area’s character.
A focus on sustainability is central to the scheme, with green roofs and improved public realm connections creating a more accessible and environmentally responsible residential community.
The external amenity space at roof level will provide spectacular views across the city and to the waterfront, offering a unique vantage point for residents.
Cllr Pat Maloney raised concerns about the small number of car parking spaces (53) and electric vehicle charging points (six), but planning officer, Felicity Collins said, regarding EV charging, the development is “a compliant level”.
Cllr Joe Hanson welcomed the scheme, saying: “For us to even consider refusing this application today will send the wrong message out to developers who are looking to see how Liverpool is starting to get back on track again after a number of years where we have been slow in doing what we need to do.”
Will Clarke, Development Director at Jarron Developments, said: “This location is the perfect setting for the Metalworks development, which will be a landmark project for the city.
“It will provide exceptional living standards, with unmatched access to work, leisure, and transport options. We are excited to see the scheme move forward and contribute to the ongoing success and growth of Liverpool.”
Metalworks Mezzanine
Martin Haymes, Associate Director at Falconer Chester Hall, said: “This scheme will play a key role in the transformation of Pumpfields, providing much needed homes and high quality public spaces while respecting the area’s industrial past.
“We look forward to bringing this exciting project to life.”
Located within walking distance of Liverpool’s commercial and waterfront districts, Metalworks will sit alongside the adjacent Gateway development, forming part of a wider vision to create a thriving new neighbourhood in Pumpfields.
This was the third attempt to kick-start development at the site, which was acquired out of administration in April 2023.
Planning permission was granted in 2017 for redevelopment of the site, comprising two interlinked blocks of 13- and 11-storeys, with commercial units at ground floor and residential above.
That scheme was not implemented and a further application was submitted in 2018 for a 13- and 15-storey scheme, but the application was not determined.
