Post by kings dock major devlopment on Dec 3, 2003 8:55:26 GMT -5
AN INTERNATIONAL search has been launched to find developers to build thousands of new homes and a major office complex on Liverpool's waterfront.
A shortlist of six developers for a 9,000 seat arena for the Kings Dock was published last month. Now planners want to find property firms that will build an array of residential, commercial and leisure schemes for the rest of the site.
The marketing campaign will feature advertisements in national, international and property trade media and a briefing brochure targeted at top developers.
Jim Gill, chief executive of Liverpool Vision, says the partners are looking for developers of the highest calibre to help realise their dreams.
He said: "Kings Waterfront is an outstanding development opportunity and an integral element of our vision for the regeneration of the city centre.
"The masterplan envisages a vibrant new urban quarter encompassing a multi-use arena, exhibition and conference centre with associated car parking, hotels, leisure and ancillary retail uses, commercial office development, public spaces and up to 1,800 residential units.
"We are looking for developers with flair, experience and capacity to realise our aspirations for this strategically important site," Mr Gill said.
Interested parties will be asked to outline their approach to the design and development of the site and indicate how they propose to work with the public partners to deliver a distinctive development of international quality. A final selection is expected to be made next April.
The masterplan already has the backing of Liverpool's business community.
Earlier this year, a survey revealed that more than four out of five business people want the city to have a major conference and exhibition centre at the Kings Dock. The latest proposals follow failed attempts by Liverpool Vision and Everton Football Club to build a 55,000 seat stadium and arena.
The land is currently owned by Government regeneration agency English Partnerships.
Developers face a tight schedule if the project is to be fully completed in time for the city's European Capital of Culture year in 2008.
COMPLETION SCHEDULED FOR AUTUMN, 2007
SEPT 4, 2003: Notices published in European Journal seeking architects to design the retail and conference facilities and an operator for the proposed arena.
Sept 8, 2003: Liverpool Vision unveils new Kings Dock plan.
Nov/Dec 2003: Appointments made on the basis of the European Journal notices for architects and operators.
Dec 2003/JAN 2004: Outline planning permission sought.
Feb 11, 2004: Final date for the receipt of expressions of interest and proposals.
April 2004: Final selection of chosen developers expected to be made.
2005/06: Work starts.
Autumn 2007: Completed.