Work starts on Port Sunlight River Park designed by Gillespies

This innovative scheme will see the creation of the Port Sunlight River Park on the former Bromborough Dock Landfill site, and it is due to open in summer 2014. The project is set to benefit local communities and combined with the beautiful heritage village of Port Sunlight, will stimulate economic development of the wider Wirral area and coastline.

The 28-hectare site will offer visitors stunning views across the river Mersey to the Liverpool waterfront and the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is the flagship project of the Mersey Coastal Park Strategy. Part of the site is important for large populations of water birds and is a site of special protection.  Work will also improve the public realm along the waterfront and a perimeter walk.

Warren Chapman, Associate in our Manchester studio, comments:

"The new park will completely transform this part of Mersey Coastline and offers a vibrant and appealing experience for both local residents and visitors. Now given the go-ahead, the designs for Port Sunlight River Park have a strong emphasis on access to nature, incorporating wildlife habitats such as a wildflower walk and a wetland area. The park's design will offer people a new leisure destination, and provide the perfect setting from which to enjoy the best view of the city of Liverpool".

Gillespies is leading the design team. The restoration project is being managed by the Land Trust on behalf of Biffa and the delivery partners which include: Biffa, BIS (formally NWDA), The Forestry Commission, Wirral Borough Council, Gillespies, Unilever, Essar, United Utilities, Port Sunlight Village Trust and the Woodland Trust.