Public inquiry will address Wirral’s “housing crisis for first time in 20 years”

Posted on 16th May 2023 in Estate News

A public inquiry, which got underway today (May 16), will lay bare the full extent of Wirral’s urgent housing need.

1815 01 Site D Artists impression

The inquiry will hear the appeals for seven planning applications submitted by Leverhulme to create “beautiful and sustainable communities” providing up to 800 new homes, with 30% affordable housing.

Nigel McGurk, Leverhulme’s Head of Land and Planning, said: “Leverhulme is pleased that the inquiry to hear our appeals is about to get underway.

“Since publishing the Leverhulme Vision and our subsequent planning applications, Leverhulme has been calling for an intelligent and robust debate around realistic, sustainable solutions to Wirral’s housing requirement.

“Sadly, this did not happen, but now the public inquiry finally provides for the sensible consideration of how to address Wirral’s housing problems in an appropriate, deliverable manner.”

Nigel added: “Wirral’s need for the delivery of family homes is critical. Leverhulme is uniquely placed to deliver the new homes that Wirral requires alongside vital economic growth and job creation.

“Wirral Council’s current trajectory will continue to fail to deliver the mix of housing, including affordable homes, that the Borough needs.

“This contrasts with Leverhulme’s proposals which are fully deliverable and would ensure multiple other benefits in ways that no other proposal in Wirral can, including the opening up of the countryside, the creation of new cycleways and footpaths and the significant enhancement of biodiversity and habitats.”