Waterfront and Historic Square Redevelopment Plans Approved

Birkenhead Waterfront and Square Revamp Approved Amid Concerns Over Consultation and Disruption

Plans to transform Birkenhead’s historic Hamilton Square and surrounding waterfront area have been officially approved by Wirral Council.

The proposed redevelopment includes a new public plaza at the Woodside Ferry Terminal, major changes to road layouts around Hamilton Square and Argyle Street, new cycling infrastructure, pedestrian routes, and parking restrictions in select areas.

The scheme, which received unanimous backing from councillors, aims to offer more travel options for residents in an area where 40% of households do not own a car. “The aim isn’t to make it harder for car owners,” said council officer Luke Bithell. “It’s to make it easier to walk, cycle, wheel, and use public transport to get around.”

However, concerns were raised during Monday’s committee meeting. Councillor Jenny Johnson criticised the low turnout for public consultation, noting that only 40 out of 3,000 contacted residents and businesses responded, with over half of them opposing the plans.

Council officers acknowledged the low response rate but highlighted that multiple rounds of consultation were carried out and some submissions—such as that from Make It Happen CIC—represented wider community groups.

Councillor Liz Grey supported the plans, saying the improvements could benefit local businesses in the long term, although disruption during construction remains a concern. In central Birkenhead, similar regeneration efforts have led to complaints from businesses over lost trade due to roadworks.

Council officers said they are working closely with Merseytravel to coordinate timelines and minimise disruption, and confirmed that the current contractor is aware of the challenges. Work could begin later this year.