New images have revealed the progress of demolition works at Bootle Strand, showcasing the transformation of the landmark shopping centre. The partial demolition of Bootle Strand has been underway since last month and Sefton Council reports that it is progressing well.
The local authority assumed ownership of The Strand in 2019 with the aim of initiating a broader regeneration project. The acquisition was secured for £32.5m, funded by a loan from the Public Works Loan Board, operating on behalf of the treasury.
The roof over the Palatine Mall Atrium has now been completely removed, separating the Palatine Block from the rest of the shopping centre. The old shop canopies along Stanley Road have also been dismantled and the main demolition of the Palatine Block is set to commence shortly.
This is scheduled to coincide with the removal of the old roof coverings from the Mons Square Canopy.
Work commenced earlier this spring and has successfully cleared approximately 40,000 square feet – 9% of the existing site – to pave the way for a new public square and modern spaces. Council officials believe these changes will help reshape Bootle Town Centre for future generations.
This phase of the project forms part of the wider Bootle Strand Transformation Project, which aims to create a vibrant town centre with inviting public spaces, enhanced leisure and retail offerings, improved transport links, and new opportunities for local businesses and residents.
To reduce disruption throughout the demolition process, a perimeter misting system has been put in place to control dust and vibration.
Additionally, round-the-clock monitoring systems have been established to guarantee minimal impact on local residents and the surrounding community.
Bootle Strand continues to operate normally during the demolition works, with all retailers and enterprises continuing to serve customers whilst construction proceeds, and the Salt and Tar events schedule for 2025 remains unchanged.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: "Since the initial concept design work commenced, we have been heavily focused on both environmental sustainability and positive social outcomes as central parts of the project.
"I am delighted to see such progress in relation to the re-use of demolition material and the minimisation of waste going to landfill.
"I am also pleased to see, even at this early stage, so many vacancies being filled by local people, and we look forward to seeing even more as the demolition and then the main works progress."
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment, added: "Seeing the demolition well underway is an exciting moment for Bootle.
"For generations the Strand has been central to our community and now it's at the centre of our plans to create a town centre that's fit for the future.
"Our focus throughout is on building a place that works for local people and businesses. While the demolition continues, shops and businesses remain open as usual, so we're asking everyone to keep supporting them as we invest in Bootle's future."
VINCI Construction º£½ÇÊÓƵ is spearheading the demolition efforts, which are anticipated to run until late 2025.
Beyond establishing fresh facilities, the scheme has already delivered apprenticeship and training prospects for residents whilst helping forge new employment routes via Sefton@Work.
Sefton Council confirmed it remains in close partnership with local inhabitants, enterprises and stakeholders to ensure the redevelopment mirrors community aspirations and requirements, from additional green outdoor areas to enhanced links with major destinations such as the new Everton Hill Dickinson Stadium.
