Chinese investors behind plans to create 1,000 jobs

THE creation of 200,000 sq ft of commercial space in Liverpool’s Chinatown could become home to up to 200 new Chinese businesses employing more than 1,000 people.

The redevelopment of derelict land close to the Anglican Cathedral, which runs up to the Black-E community arts centre, would also see around 800 residential units built on the Great George Street site.

The proposals would see the plans developed in three phases, with a planning application for the first phase expected to be submitted during the summer.

Project director for the scheme, Antonio Garcia from BLOK Architecture, said: “From the very outset we viewed this development as an historic opportunity to be the catalyst for the regeneration of Chinatown.
 
“We are offering a dynamic mixed-use scheme that will bring people and business to the area and make it an international quality destination.
 
“One of the most important elements of our vision, which we have developed with our Chinese investors, is the creation of up to 200 new Chinese businesses with the potential to create over 1,000 jobs.
 
“We view this as one of the most important and potentially transformational development opportunities in Liverpool.”

The New Chinatown scheme is being developed by North Point Global, through the vehicle China Town Developments, which is the development arm of construction firm PHD1. The company has bought out Urban Splash’s interest in the site.

Liverpool’s deputy mayor, Cllr Ann O’Byrne, said: “PHD1 has come up with a really exciting project which will completely transform this patch of land and will be the catalyst to breathe new life into the wider area.
 
“They have devised some extremely innovative ideas around developing links with China and the universities to create a substantial numbers of new jobs and bring a completely new commercial and retail offer to the area.”

A public exhibition of the plans will be held at Studio 2 Parr Street on July 12-13, from 11am to 8pm.