The regeneration of Central Docks at Liverpool Waters is moving another step closer as Peel Waters appoints GRAHAM as the main contractor for the £71 million infrastructure works. This development is set to transform the largest brownfield site in Liverpool into a vibrant new neighbourhood, unlocking the potential for thousands of homes and major economic growth for the city region.
At Millbank, we follow these regeneration projects with real interest, not only because of their impact on local communities, but also for the opportunities they create for the engineering, construction, and infrastructure workforce. Schemes of this scale generate demand for a wide range of roles, from civil engineers, site managers and quantity surveyors, to project managers, planners, environmental consultants, and technical specialists. These are the kinds of positions Millbank frequently recruits for, and we are always excited to see the sector advancing with projects of national significance.
The £71 million investment in Central Docks is backed by £25.9 million of direct investment from Peel Waters and £55.2 million of funding from Homes England. The project will deliver critical infrastructure including underground utilities, new roads, and public realm improvements, supporting the delivery of around 2,350 new homes across a mix of tenures.
A central feature of the scheme will be the creation of a 2.1-hectare Central Park, one of Liverpool’s largest green spaces. The park will host hundreds of new trees, sports and play facilities, and leisure spaces, forming the focal point of the new neighbourhood. The wider 60-hectare Liverpool Waters development continues to evolve into a major mixed-use waterfront destination, set to be delivered over a 30-year period.
James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters, commented:
“The appointment of GRAHAM is a major step forward in turning our vision for Central Docks at Liverpool Waters into more of a reality as it means we are gearing up to breaking ground to provide much needed infrastructure to enable more development plots and housing to come forward. Peel Waters have worked with the contractor on several award-winning projects across our portfolio including Millers Quay across the Mersey at Wirral Waters and it is clear from the design process, that all parties share our long-term vision to transform this former industrial land into a spectacular, waterfront neighbourhood and destination.”
Alastair Lewis, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, added:
“We’re delighted to be appointed as principal contractor on this landmark scheme for Peel Waters – reflecting our shared commitment to creating infrastructure and neighbourhoods that prioritise sustainability and community. This project will play a pivotal role in further regeneration of the docklands area, and we look forward to working with Peel Waters to transform this site into an iconic world heritage waterfront.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, also welcomed the progress:
“This appointment is a major milestone as it sets in motion a multi-million investment drive in one of the most important brownfield developments sites in England. The Central Docks site has massive potential to deliver a housing scheme of significance and show the country how transformational brownfield regeneration can and should be done. It will also act as a catalyst for our wider plans for north Liverpool, which will greatly help stimulate the housing sector in our city region.”
At Millbank, we recognise that projects like Central Docks represent more than regeneration – they symbolise a long-term commitment to sustainable development, community growth, and career opportunities within the built environment. With demand continuing for civil engineers, construction managers, technical specialists, and more, we remain committed to supporting professionals in securing rewarding careers across the infrastructure and regeneration sectors.
Construction work on Central Park and the wider Central Docks infrastructure is due to begin this autumn, marking an exciting new chapter for Liverpool’s waterfront.
Source: www.peelwaters.co.uk ‘Peel Waters appoints Grahams to deliver £71M Central Docks infrastructure’
