Homes England has acquired Merseyside Police’s former headquarters at Canning Place in Liverpool for £17m.
The government agency will now appoint a consultant team and carry out stakeholder and public engagement, as it works up redevelopment plans for Canning Place, which acted as Merseyside Police’s HQ for more than 40 years. The plans are likely to include new homes, a hotel, shops and leisure facilities.
The site, which includes the 135,000 sq ft, seven floor building, an annex, car park and gatehouse, was on the open market for nine weeks and drew strong developer interest, with 13 bids received. Mace Consult, Colliers and engagement specialists PLACED assisted with the marketing and disposal of the site.
The money recouped from the sale of Canning Place will be reinvested into modernising and updating Merseyside Police’s stations and buildings as part of the Merseyside Police and crime commissioner’s 12-year estate strategy.
Emily Spurrell, Merseyside Police and crime commissioner, said: “Completing the sale of Canning Place is a hugely significant moment. The site was part of Merseyside Police’s story for more than 40 years, but it was no longer suitable for a modern, forward-looking police service. This sale allows us to take the right steps to reinvest a substantial amount back into our policing estate – delivering on my commitment to provide fit‑for‑purpose stations and facilities that support our officers, PCSOs and staff to do their jobs effectively and put our communities first.
“Canning Place sits in one of the most important locations on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, and Homes England’s involvement will bring fresh energy, new opportunities and a vibrant new neighbourhood. This marks the start of an exciting transformation for the site and the city.”
Danielle Gillespie, executive regional director (North West) at Homes England, added: “Canning Place is an exceptional site right at the heart of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, and we are pleased to complete this important acquisition. It is a great example of how, in line with the established strategic place partnership between Homes England and mayor Rotheram, the public sector can work together to unlock the redevelopment of public sector assets to boost housing and regeneration.
“We are pleased that the deal with the Merseyside Police and crime commissioner will enable further investment in their estate locally and we look forward to working with Liverpool City Council and key stakeholders as we bring this exciting project forward.”
