As work has started i have opened new thread.

Good stuff! Great to see a thread dedicated to this regeneration. Beena long time coming.

I'm sure most people know what is to be built, but 'for the record' -

From Neptune Developments -

New Brighton Phase 2

Neptune Developments is due to start on site later this year with Phase Two of their £60m regeneration scheme at New Brighton.

It will comprise of three groups of buildings housing both leisure and retail space set in high quality landscaping and public realm and benefiting from improved highway and public transport links.

The main mixed-use building will include a pioneering six screen/1000 seat digital cinema, a 66 bed Travelodge hotel and a Morrisons supermarket as well as a number of restaurants and bars. There will also be a large pedestrian street separating this from a crescent shaped second building fronting the existing Marine Lake which will provide the focus for leisure use.

The Western end of the site will see a new public lido and a car par providing 750 spaces to cater for the amount of visitors that the development is expected to encourage. There will also be a two storey water sports training facility with its own purpose built pontoon provide in the marine lake.

This second phase of construction is expected to take approximately 18 months, with completion due in 2011.

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb9.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb10.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb6.jpg

Details from here, with further images - http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/developments/showdevelopment.asp?recordid=71

New Brighton should have a rollercoaster and a new tower, not Morrisons and a cinema. The town should be re-geared to encourage day trips again. Something along the lines of the Spinnaker tower would be perfect.

About the best thing that can be said about the above development is that it beats the similar but even more execrable Ocean Plaza in Southport.

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb3.jpg

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/assets/_files/cached/img/402x279.256/nov_09/pnw__1258367990_Neptune_New_Brighton_MV_04_01c.jpg

New Brighton should have a rollercoaster and a new tower, not Morrisons and a cinema. The town should be re-geared to encourage day trips again. Something along the lines of the Spinnaker tower would be perfect.

These things won't happen while the site is vacant. When the new developments are finished the next thing to push for is the return of the Pier.

Once a pier and the ferries are returned to New Brighton you will get movement on this front. Merseytravel would be the ideal partners for a leisure facility since they already do so with the U Boat and the Spaceport.

I argued that one of the big wheels going up in Liverpool should be moved onto the old tower grounds site, when they're don in town.

New Brighton should have a rollercoaster and a new tower, not Morrisons and a cinema. The town should be re-geared to encourage day trips again. Something along the lines of the Spinnaker tower would be perfect.

I'd like to think that some additional tourist attractions would come as a result of the new development. At the moment, outside of a few sunny days in summer, New Brighton doesn't attract a whole lot of footfall. However with the Floral Pavilion now bringing more people into the area year-round, and with the new developments doing the same, hopefully their will be enough footfall to encourage people to open and develop tourist attractions in the area.

New Brighton should have a rollercoaster and a new tower, not Morrisons and a cinema. The town should be re-geared to encourage day trips again. Something along the lines of the Spinnaker tower would be perfect.

It has been around 80 years since any project in Wallasey reclaimed land from the sea. It is past time to change that.

I'm sure most people know what is to be built, but 'for the record' -

From Neptune Developments -



Details from here, with further images - http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/developments/showdevelopment.asp?recordid=71

It's great that New Brighton will get a nice shiny new supermarket, but IMHO these renders look bloody awful.

NB needs something keeping in with the surroundings, not something that resembles Salford Shopping City, which has been dragged begrudgingly from the 1960's & given a sympathetic makeover.

Think something so much better could be done here...

Yeah....it's a SUPERMARKET.

I was thinking this looked like quite a pleasant place to relax myself.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/assets/_files/cached/img/402x279.256/nov_09/pnw__1258367990_Neptune_New_Brighton_MV_04_01c.jpg[/QUOTE]

Yeah....it's a SUPERMARKET.

Your point being Evertonian (barr the statement itself)?

The point being a supermarket doesn't need to be an iconic building, nor is it likely that a supermarket would generate the kind of investment required to build such a building.

Supermarkets are functional buildings and design doesn't really come into it. As it is the design of the blocks above is hardly offensive in comparrison to some supermarket designs.

As for the buildings being "in keeping" with the surroundings, I feel that would have been a mistake. You only have to look at attempts people have made elsewhere to give modern buildings such a look to realise it never works. The last thing New Brighton needs is some tacky faux-art deco look on modern builds.

(See the horrific mock tudor finish on the buildings at Cheshire Oaks)

The stonework on the renders for the Morrisons and the Travel-Lodge and the block nature of the design actually reminds me a little of South John Street in Liverpool One.

http://www.vivaliverpool.co.uk/images/Paradise_Street_Liverpool_One.jpg

thats paradise street :D

Is there a render of the lido? It should be a magnet for the pale-skinned masses (me included) when it is opened - if it´s of sufficient quality and maintained correctly.

I think one of the main problems with new Brighton is that like any waterfront it is logistically peripheral and weatherwise obviously very exposed. Even in the summer, it can be very cold down around that marine lake, therefore unless those buildings in the render shield some of the sea breazes I can't see it ever being as pleasant a place to relax as intimated in the images (at least not for 10 months of the year). Therefore there has to be something to see/experience. Like everything else, for New Brighton to ever bring the crowds back and be anything more than a pleasant walk along the waterfront with a chippy or 2, there needs to be some massing of real attractions otherwise it will only ever be as popular as say West Kirby. The marine lake and the river could probably be far better utilised as a resource.... a dedicated ferry would certainly help if the cost/benefit could be made to work. Couldn't the Fort become a ferry terminal with a landing stage added? How about a power boat and sailing boat link between Crosby, New Brighton and West kirby Marine lakes to consolidate facilities and increase sailing-leisure activities? People could arrive at any of these places (and even the pier head) and expect to spend some part of a whole day-out at each of them experiencing the river fully. After all it always seems to be a bit of a wasted experience to go down to the river/sea without getting in it, or on it IMO.

... Couldn't the Fort become a ferry terminal with a landing stage added? How about a power boat and sailing boat ... People could arrive at any of these places (and even the pier head) and expect to spend some part of a whole day-out at each of them experiencing the river fully. After all it always seems to be a bit of a wasted experience to go down to the river/sea without getting in it, or on it IMO.
The fort is too historic. I think there is room for a combined coffee shop and hotel with tourist tower atop and car park at ground level, ferry and fishing pier, trailered-boat launch ramps and shops. All built as a single complex on storm-hardened reclaimed land at the foot of Victoria Road (site of the old tidepool).

Realistically there isn't the money to do too much at New Brighton at the moment. My hope is that the 75 million worth of investment by Neptune in the town brings further investment down the line.

A return of the ferries (wheres kat with an update on this when you need her! ; ) and some kind of toursit attraction, perhaps at the Tower Grounds, would be a great next stage for new bro.

Just before I go away to look after my dad

here you go
some things that are on the table for 2010

new Brighton
Pier survey will take place
and feasbility study (inc ferry service)

talked about this year big wheel
================================
The main focus for 2010

Woodside development or rather re development plans
some land that is currently owned by Pier Head Housing association in that area may be bought by Peels
=============================

something is going to happen around Lairds or in that area
================================
university you will hear more about sports science ect
================================

thats all i can say really except have a nice christmas everyone
and the best ever 2010
kat:)

I'm sure most people know what is to be built, but 'for the record' -

From Neptune Developments -



Details from here, with further images - http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/developments/showdevelopment.asp?recordid=71

that is shockingly bad stuff.

Oh dear, the lido in the Netptune website renders looks only slightly bigger than my old school swimming pool. Shame.

I went to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at the Floral Pavilion yesterday. Remembering what the old place was like, I was really impressed. A large stage and auditorium area and a large front of house area with views over the Mersey and really good facilities.

After so many years and so many failed projects for the restoration of New Brigton, I am at last feeling really optimistic about the place.

... After so many years and so many failed projects for the restoration of New Brighton, I am at last feeling really optimistic about the place.
Pretty much any development has to be better than none.

When Kings Parade was built, roughly 80 years ago, there were promises that it would be developed commercially. And since the reclaimed land (largely formed as tunnel construction rock) was owned by the Borough it would be sold profitably and the money spent on public purposes. It is plenty big enough and would be a good place to put a soccer stadium, especially since there is a railway with disused station nearby.

Is there a map of what is proposed?

^^

Here you go - http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/mediadocs/Final%20Parameter%20Plans.pdf (requires.pdf)

The above document features various site plans detailing different aspects of the scheme, however as such, it is over 8.5Mb in size, so may take a while to appear if you don't have a fast connection.

Pretty much any development has to be better than none.

When Kings Parade was built, roughly 80 years ago, there were promises that it would be developed commercially. And since the reclaimed land (largely formed as tunnel construction rock) was owned by the Borough it would be sold profitably and the money spent on public purposes. It is plenty big enough and would be a good place to put a soccer stadium, especially since there is a railway with disused station nearby.


I've always thought that Kings Parade is the ideal location for a stadium too. As theres 3 stations within reasonable distance in New brighton and Wallasey Grove Road and Village also the motorway goes past Greenleas Primary right onto the front.

Sadly can't see it happening as the complaints and objections from NIMBYs would see to it never seeing the light of day.

Shame as I believe a shared stadium for Tranmere and one of the Rugby clubs in that particular area would make more money for the club. I believe you'd get more people from Wallasey (who have a higher disposable income) going the match.

New Brighton did once have a stadium that once attracted 80,000 spectators apparently.

From the Daily Post -

New Brighton marine lake drained as work begins on Neptune scheme

Dec 31 2009 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

PLANS to increase the number of retail outlets at a major new development in Wirral look set to be approved by the local authority.

Planning experts at Wirral Council have recommended the change to the approved planning application for the Neptune scheme in New Brighton.

In November, Neptune Developments Director Rob Mason insisted the basic aims of the schemes were not changing, and the amendment to the plans was approved by Wirral Council as landlord last year and they were now seeking planning permission.

A report which will be presented to Wirral Council’s planning committee recommends the application be approved.

The report said: “With conditions to control the future use and floorspace of the buildings in question, the grant of planning permission can be justified.”

The planning committee is due to meet on January 7 to make a final decision on the proposals.

Full article here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2009/12/31/new-brighton-marine-lake-drained-as-work-begins-on-neptune-scheme-92534-25499125/

New Brighton did once have a stadium that once attracted 80,000 spectators apparently.

Tower Grounds had an alleged capacity of 80,000 - a vast bowl of a stadium with next to no seating and minimal roof cover, think Chelsea in the 50's. However, New Brighton FC only averaged around 1500 spectators when they where in the Football League. The biggest crowds were for the speedway which itself eventually lost its popularity.

Vague memories as a small child of kicking a ball on the pitch after visiting the Tower Grounds fairground - now that's giving my age away!:nuts:

Not too relevant to the topic but that Chelsea ground (Stamford Bridge) was constructed from spoil excavated from construction of the London Underground.

Also, my memory of the 'heyday' of New Brighton was having my tooth knocked out on the dodgems.

Cheers Beegee

Not too relevant to the topic but that Chelsea ground (Stamford Bridge) was constructed from spoil excavated from construction of the London Underground.

Also, my memory of the 'heyday' of New Brighton was having my tooth knocked out on the dodgems.

I've loads of memories of New Brighton, but my disturbing one was paddling in teh Mersey, just under the old pier, and coming back to the beach with my lower legs covered in oil and stuff.

I've loads of memories of New Brighton, but my disturbing one was paddling in teh Mersey, just under the old pier, and coming back to the beach with my lower legs covered in oil and stuff.

"Stuff".........? haha

used to swim in the Mersey at Seacombe (late 60's, early 70's).... Minging!

"Stuff".........? haha
used to swim in the Mersey at Seacombe (late 60's, early 70's).... Minging!
I well remember the annual police charity swim from Seacombe to New Brighton.
Well they actually dived off the edge of the ferry boat closer to Egremont and of course swam with the maximum ebb tide. Still it was something to behold and worth getting hit up for charity donations to watch.

Apparently it ended at some point (after many many years) but there are apparently no reports as to exactly when and why. Lack of interest and fitness in the modern age I assume, or maybe Health and Safety busybodies.

I think it's because NB became so run down that developers and local politicos get away with what is in effect, architecturally, little more than retail park tat.

On the other hand maybe when you're down and out that's the best you can hope for and at least these proposals will provide low paid jobs and increase economic activity in the area. The main problem here is that when you set the bar low, it tends to stay low. To be fair, it's pretty much par for the course in terms of what happens to former 'seaside' towns in this country.

Poor NB it could have been so much more.

The main problem here is that when you set the bar low, it tends to stay low.

I don't know Babs. I think if you're determined to use it as a springboard, and not think of it as job done, the good stuff can come. Remember a decade ago, Liverpool was getting some pretty questionable architecture too, and look where we are now. Of course anything in New Brighton would have to be within the scale of the town itself - new towers etc aren't likely to spring up there - but I do think the recent and upcoming developments there could act as a solid base for better things to come.

To be fair, it's pretty much par for the course in terms of what happens to former 'seaside' towns in this country.

I see where you're coming from. Morecambe built a load of non-descript retail on its seafront, and Rhyl seems to be going down the same route too. However in both instances, they were simultaneously getting rid of the things that made the town a resort. Morecambe made it virtually impossible for Frontierland to develop due to over-stringent planning, meaning the business wasn't profitable, and the owners left. Meanwhile, the large indoor/outdoor swimming facility was demolished. Similarly in Rhyl, their non-descript retail boxes will be built on the site of the admittedly tired, but still popular fun fair.

Granted New Brighton doesn't have resort facilities quite as developed as those formerly at Morecambe and Rhyl. However provided the new developments sit side-by-side with what they do have (as seems to be the case), and new facilities that edge into the resort sector (like the Floral Pavilion) are added, I think New Brighton may side step the situation that Morecambe and Rhyl now/will soon find themselves in, of merely being a town on the coast, no longer a resort.

You may be right. Hope so. I vaguely remember Kat saying something about an, erm, 'Art Deco template' being used to guide future buildings in this development. I guess travelodge and Morrisions have their own in-house style. One of the buildings does look as though whoever designed it might have seen a south coast lido.

From the Daily Post -

£3.9 million boost to major Wirral development scheme

Feb 9 2010 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

A MAJOR redevelopment of a Wirral seaside town has been given a boost by a £3.9m grant from the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA).

The money is being used for the preparatory works for the second and major phase of the New Brighton scheme, and comes as work progresses on the project.

The “new New Brighton” scheme covers 14 hectares of New Brighton seafront and the grant will pay for a new model boating lake, car parking, a promenade, and a new seawall.

The development will eventually see a new Morrisons supermarket, hotel, fitness centre, cinema, bars and restaurants and a revamped marine lake.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2010/02/09/3-9-million-boost-to-major-wirral-development-scheme-92534-25791950/

how do i put pictures off my phone onto here?

how do i put pictures off my phone onto here?

Hi Bowker. You need to upload them onto a photo website like Photobucket. Then copy the image links, so it looks something like this:

[IMG]your photo[IMG]

[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00399.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00399.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]
[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00401.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00401.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]

[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00403.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00403.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]
[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00400.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00400.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]

[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00399.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00399.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]
[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00401.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00401.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]

[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00403.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00403.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]
[IMG]http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00400.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00400.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]
Wow, they're beautiful!;)

Bowker, you only need the highlighted section -

http://s920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/?action=view&current=DSC00399.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00399.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>[IMG/]

Also, the closing IMG tag should be , not

In other words, it should look a bit like this - [IMG]Highlighted Text Here

Hope that helps. :)

Hi Bowker, I'd recomend using Imageshack, much easier than photo bucket, just paste the url which says 'Direct Link' between these tags url

Photos by Bowker (thank you Bowker for the contribution)


Floral Pavillion.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00406.jpg


The newly emptied Marine Lake. This is to be remodelled with new shops, cafes, resturants and bars running along the prom side, creating a marine lakeside boulevard.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00403.jpg
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00400.jpg


Fencing and groundworks being carried out for the Supermarket, Cinema and shopping element of the developments.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00399.jpg
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad43/bowker2009/DSC00397.jpg

Thanks for putting pics up Evertonian i have only got a short patience so i give up quite easily when things dont go right.

Thanks for putting pics up Evertonian i have only got a short patience so i give up quite easily when things dont go right.

Great photos bowker, it's the first time I've got a real sense of where these new buildings are going to sit. On ballance I agree that they are not buildings of the highest calibre, but, given the location I also concede that this sort of low level development is necessary to kick start a wider regeneration which might one day see New Brighton restored to something of it's former glory. And once we get a great big new observation tower stuck on the site no one will ever care about how good the shops are!

Of course, this will all be washed away by sea level rise within 50 years... but hey, we'll probably all be dead by then! :lol:

Im hoping to get down there with my camera tommorow. The sheer scale of the site is unbelievable. 14 hectres and fencing running down a very long stretch of Kings Parade.

I am quite confident that Neptune will do a good job down there. They've done a great job on Mann Isand and other projects.

I suspect that while the designs arent particularly iconic, the finish (judging by other neptune projects and the new floral) will be decent.

It has to be since the marine landscape there is so unforgiving (sea sided rather than river based as their other major project is) that if it isnt of a decent quality, it will looked ruinous within a decade due to the weather and sea lashings the buildings will take.

I'll also try and get down to the east float as I notice there is a lot of heavy building equipment on the Wirral Waters site.

down at east float there is a fair on nxt week i seen advert somewhere the other day

heres website about the fair
www.wallisamusements.co.uk

I have to admit, whilst the marine lake leisure area does look idyllic on a summer evening, how many days in the year or even the summer will that get used. There are some hardy individuals out there, only 2 weeks ago I sat out eating chips outside the Mediterranean fish and chip shop in thick fog (nice chips!)

I fear the weather may get the better of that part of it. However I hope there's enough indoor seating, usually there is little, as seen in developments like Liverpool one.

Would it not be possible for a relocated and rennovated Royal Iris to be sited in the Marine Lake? Maybe the lake could be deepend to accept her.

You could then install a fish and chip shop on it and have it as a resturant. If not, then it would make a good floating nightclub, like the one thats off the strand in Liverpool (what's it called again? Walk the Plank or something?)

Marine Lake to be refilled end of next month.

new webcam looking over the main site on neptunes website
http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/webcams/webcams.asp

Cheers Bowker, nice webcam that!

Thanks for the link Bowker. :cheers:

That's a great webcam.

The sheer scale of this site/s is unreal. I took these shots the other day and saw an incredible amount of activity on the site.

I counted at least 12 items of heavy machinery, a huge heavy duty rock and concrete smasher that was creating huge mountains of rubble, at least half a dozen JCB's, two or three piling machines and about 40 odd lads on site.

Heres the photos I took, in a sequence running from the west of the site on Kings Promenade moving along eastwards towards and taking in the marine lake....


Start of the works. A large, long trench was being dug which was filled with concrete. I can only imagine that this is for drainage and for all pipes to be layed underneath the buildings?
http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/9633/newbrightonfeb2010004.jpg

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/1107/newbrightonfeb2010005.jpg

http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/7946/newbrightonfeb2010006.jpg

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/5930/newbrightonfeb2010008.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/3728/newbrightonfeb2010010.jpg

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9485/newbrightonfeb2010011.jpg

http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/5779/newbrightonfeb2010012.jpg

http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/8851/newbrightonfeb2010013.jpg

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/9452/newbrightonfeb2010018.jpg

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/7361/newbrightonfeb2010019.jpg


The site of the supermarket, cinema, shops, cafes, is also pretty vast. It almost resembled a moonscape. Again, even more diggers....

http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/737/newbrightonfeb2010021.jpg

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/6364/newbrightonfeb2010022.jpg

The Marine Lake has been dug out to a very deep level now. Where the portakabins and crates are, are where the boardwalk/quayside cafes and resturants are going to be, along the marine lake....

http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/5536/newbrightonfeb2010023.jpg

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/5926/newbrightonfeb2010028.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/7703/newbrightonfeb2010030.jpg

Thanks for the photos. :cheers:

After a seemingly endless journey through planning, it's good to see this on site and making good progress.

Is that a rig for driven piles?

Fantastic webcam posted by Bowker2008. Great views of the Bay.

http://www.camserv.co.uk/neptune/nb_phase2.htm


:cheers:

New Brighton developer told to go ahead with lido scheme

Mar 25 2010
A DEVELOPER must build a health and fitness club as part of a major regeneration scheme despite failing to find a company to run the site.

Neptune Developments told Wirral Council they have not found anyone to operate the health club and lido in the multimillion pound New Brighton project.

But a secret report presented to councillors recommended the authority press the developer to build the gym and outdoor pool anyway, fearing grants would otherwise have to be repaid.

Wirral’s Cabinet was told Neptune had previously offered to build a municipal swimming baths which would then be operated by the council, but this had been rejected.

The report – heard in the absence of the public – said Neptune then put forward three other options. The first was to build the health club and lido as originally planned, although no operator had been found.

The other options were for a “splash pool” and smaller health club, or for a splash pool and adventure playground facility.

However, the report said these would be cheaper and could lead to “claw back” of Northwest Development Agency (NWDA) grants.

Local residents who had opposed the ori ginal Neptune pl ans for the resort had been particularly critical of the health club as they said the height of the building would obscure views, and said they feared the building could now be a “white elephant”.

The lido had been a key element in the original proposals for New Brighton, and a large part of the scheme is on the site of the former open air swimming baths.

Work on the second phase of the New Brighton scheme is progressing well, and will see a new Morrisons supermarket, hotel, cinema, restaurants and bars.

Rob Mason, Neptune’s development director, said: “We presented Wirral Council with a series of interesting options for the lido and we are happy to work with them on the proposal that they decided upon.”

It doesn't sound like much of a problem to me. Fitness centres have been badly affected by the economic downturn, as people try to save money by cancelling their memberships. However I'm sure a year or so from now, when the economy has hopefully improved a bit, memberships are increasing again meaning fitness centre operators are looking to expand again, and this scheme is nearing completion, it will be a more tantalising proposition, even if having to operate the lido pool as well may make it a slightly harder sell.

Looks like foundations for the small boating lake are in and some funny concrete things are in couldnt work out what they where

new brighton updates coastal defence
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4538203379_975971f368_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4538833590_14cf290dc5_b.jpg

coastal defence works april 20
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2800/4538200375_6b282c5c20_b.jpg

new model boating lake formers
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4538199031_b29e2ed207_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2794/4538197587_f5823a200e_b.jpg
model boating lake former
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2757/4538827508_9a7aabd898_b.jpg
seems to go on for miles
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4538826048_4b1ca69765_b.jpg
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new Brighton, april 20th
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Never mind the lido... has a cinema chain been found yet?

Thanks for the updates kat :cheers:

Never mind the lido... has a cinema chain been found yet?

The cinema will be operated by Light Digital Cinemas -

From Birknehead News via Wirralnews.co.uk -

Wirral’s first all-digital cinema planned for New Brighton

Feb 11 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

MERSEYSIDE’S first all-digital cinema will be one of the key attractions in the next phase of ambitious plans to redevelop New Brighton.

The new venue, operated by Light Digital Cinemas, will have six screens and 1,000 seats, and will be part of phase two of the regeneration of New Brighton.

The digital cinema will also allow sporting events, theatre, operas to be viewed on the big screen as well as showing the latest blockbusters.

Australian John Sullivan and business partner Keith Pullinger are behind the company, which aims to revolutionise the cinema experience.

Originally involved in setting up the Warner Village cinemas across the UK, Mr Sullivan joined with Keith Pullinger, who had worked with Virgin Cinema, to set up their own company.

Mr Sullivan claims the Light Digital at New Brighton will be the first all-digital cinema designed for the new system.

Article continues here - http://www.wirralnews.co.uk/wirral-news/local-wirral-news/2009/02/11/wirral-s-first-all-digital-cinema-planned-for-new-brighton-80491-22895788/

I'm encouraged to hear an operator is on board, I had visions of the developers not being able to find one and converting the cinema into a shopping centre or similar.

From the Daily Post -

Neptune and HSBC agree £24m funding for Wirral New Brighton scheme

May 11 2010 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

THE developers of a key Wirral waterfront area have signed a £24m funding agreement with the HSBC bank – kick-starting the commercial element of the scheme.

HSBC Corporate Banking North West and Neptune Wirral Limited confirmed they have signed the deal for the New Brighton development.

It comes as Bowmer & Kirkland were also officially signed on as the development’s main contractor.

Although work started last year on the second phase of the £60m project, the funding agreement is a crucial step in taking the scheme forward.

Peter Hynd, Chairman of Neptune Wirral Ltd said: “This is a huge milestone for the scheme and the Wirral as a whole.

“We are thrilled to have secured HSBC’s support despite challenging market conditions which clearly reflects on the quality of Neptune’s proposals.

“We are now looking forward to working together on delivering phase two of the scheme which is a huge step in the ongoing regeneration of New Brighton.”

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2010/05/11/neptune-and-hsbc-agree-24m-funding-for-wirral-new-brighton-scheme-92534-26419510/

They are in the process of installing the foundation for the new pontoon in the marine lake so lake should b refilled late next month, also they should start the steel frame for block 1 (which i presume is morrisions) this summer
found this out from the walrus magazine i get through my door www.newbrightonwalrus.org.uk

http://www.newbrightononline.org.uk/power/

After a couple of months of ground preparations, things finally seem to be moving a bit quicker with this development. Foundations are now being dug across the site, while some concrete lorries were on site towards the end of last week, so presumably a few foundations have now been poured. In addition, there are plenty of what I presume to be steel mesh cubes to go into the foundations. I wouldn't be surprised to see the one go vertical by the end of summer.

Webcam - http://www.wirralcam.org/new_brighton_phase2.shtml
Larger version - http://www.wirralcam.org/feeds/NBPhase2.jpg

I wouldn't be surprised to see the one go vertical by the end of summer.

Well I couldn't have been very much more wrong with that estimation. As of this morning, this development has gone vertical.

Webcam - http://www.wirralcam.org/new_brighton_phase2.shtml
Larger version - http://www.wirralcam.org/feeds/NBPhase2.jpg

Chris is this going in that location in the second webcam picture? I can't get my bearings with what's going on here.I'm thinking the far right part of the picture in the link is the Marine Lake that appears in this picture? Am I right?

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/assets/_files/cached/img/402x279.256/nov_09/pnw__1258367990_Neptune_New_Brighton_MV_04_01c.jpg[/QUOTE]

Yes, that's the marine lake on the far right of the webcam image. This should help give an idea of what is going where -

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee202/chrisbatesuk/newbrighton-1.jpg
Copyright to the copyright holder(s). Displayed here for information purposes only.

KEY -
Area 3 - Outdoor Performance Area
Unit 5 - Cinema
Units 6-7 - Commercial Leisure
Unit 8 - Sailing Club
Unit 9 - Travelodge
Units 10-16 - Bars and Restaurants
Unit 17 - Morrison's
Unit 18 - Toilets

Based on the above, I'd say the steelwork constructed so far will most likely form part of the row of units that will back onto Morrison's, namely between the Travelodge at Unit 9 and the bar or restaurant at Unit 16, as it doesn't seem to be close enough to the marine lake to form part of the units that will directly front the lake.

You can find the full version of the above site plan, including amongst several other things, the plans for the upper level here - http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/mediadocs/Final%20Parameter%20Plans.pdf (requires .pdf)

Chris that's fantastic,I can't go wrong with that explanation thanks.:)

I'm actually looking forward to this now,I took a walk down there recently as far as Vale Park and back up to New Brighton and it was great around there,with these bars and restaurants fronting the Marine Lake,I can see me having a meal or a drink there quite often.

Chris that's fantastic,I can't go wrong with that explanation thanks.:)

I'm actually looking forward to this now,I took a walk down there recently as far as Vale Park and back up to New Brighton and it was great around there,with these bars and restaurants fronting the Marine Lake,I can see me having a meal or a drink there quite often.

I live just off Warren Drive on the Mount looking down on this (will have to get a decent panoramic pic of this scheme so people can see just how vast it is).

I'm looking forward to it being finished as it will be great to have a cinema right on my doorstep. I look forward to the new eateries/resturants and I also look forward to seeing what the new gym is like and/or no doubt getting a membership for the swimming pools.

I really hope that the bars that are open of an evening take a completely different approach to Gary Laycock's clubs across the road and have an agressive no scals/over 25's only policy. It would be great if there was a bar in New Brighton with a 2-3am liscence that played decent music (no donk, scouse house or shitty pop RnB house!!!) and was a bit more relaxed a vibe, with no kick offs.

I am probbaly asking abit too much of New Bro here but a bit of late night sophistication, or at least an enjoyable evening of decent music, catering to a slightly older corwd would be most welcome and would, I suspect, make an absolute killing, money wise.

I wish I had the money to start up something there!

Ambient music and water go hand in hand,I shouldn't worry too much about that.

I just hope its not like the development in Southport by the Marina. Although this is great for families something a bit more sophisticated would be great rather than franky and bennys and a premier inn pub.

looks like marine lake is being filled up on wirral cam

I would be very interested to see if independant businessmen are going to be allowed anywhere near this development, or if it will all be Costa Coffee and Franki & Benni's???

I would be very interested to see what the rent is like for the bars/bistros on the Marine Lake waterfront and if they will be available for independants. If so I have a number of friends who are Chefs who might be interested in clubbing together to start a business down there.

I think it will be a Southport-esque type development. Once I was all for it, but having read over and over the documents relating to this, I'm not so positive anymore.

I realise that building a supermarket on the front is to attempt to spread or even polarise economic activity to the promenade, however I think it would have best been utilised in a different way.

I realise supermarkets are important for the economy and lifestyle, but it seems there's always a supermarket/premier inn to ruin a development all to often recently.

I notice however toilets being installed, New Brighton desperately needs toilets, especially after the old block has been demolished. I guess they will be charging 30p for use though?

I can understand and can tollerate a supermarket and hotel being there. New Brighton's challenge, being a seaside town, is that currently it is very seasonal.

Today was absolutely booming all day with hundreds of people around due to the nice weather. In the wintertime though it is completely desolate on the front, for all but the most hardened of runners and dog walkers.

To turn that around and to have people around during the off season the cinema, supermarket and hotel are needed.

From the Daily Post -

Landmark moment in New Brighton's Neptune Developments regeneration

Aug 19 2010 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

WIRRAL Council yesterday took back control of part of the New Brighton seafront in a key moment of the seaside town’s redevelopment.

The handover was marked by council leader Jeff Green, who described it as a “great example of public and private sector partnership working at its best”.

Neptune Developments started work in January on the seafront and have drained and dredged the marine lake, along with building a new model boating lake, car park, and promenade.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2010/08/19/landmark-moment-in-new-brighton-s-neptune-developments-regeneration-scheme-92534-27092629/

I took a walk along the front at New Brighton last week, and I was very impressed with how things are moving along there. I really like the Floral Hall, which is far better inside than it looks outside.

One thing though; I had a cuppa in a caf on the front which had old photos of the area. One was entitled N***ers Hill. 2 things here; firstly is it right to put a photo up with that word on it, and secondly, why was it thus called? I'm guessing because it was a sun trap, but even so.

I took a walk along the front at New Brighton last week, and I was very impressed with how things are moving along there. I really like the Floral Hall, which is far better inside than it looks outside. .

Looks OK ......


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The West Cheshire Sailing School's relocation to the Marine Lake looks to be a great idea.

The pontoons are in place now and I noticed that the wooden walkways are being put onto the pontoons.

I also noticed that the foundations for the boardwalk wrapping around that part of the Marine Lake are now in place.

The L shape of the construction shown in the Wirralcam suggests that the Travelodge is the first part going up; and that cannot be a bad thing.

They used to allow motorcycle racing on Kings Parade. I wonder if whatever legal device was used to allow motorcycles would also permit Segway machines to be used by the tourists along Kings Parade. Even while Segways are banned in most of Britain. It seems like it would be an appropriate use. Perhaps the lifeboat people would have a use for Segways too.

The L shape of the construction shown in the Wirralcam suggests that the Travelodge is the first part going up; and that cannot be a bad thing.

They used to allow motorcycle racing on Kings Parade. I wonder if whatever legal device was used to allow motorcycles would also permit Segway machines to be used by the tourists along Kings Parade. Even while Segways are banned in most of Britain. It seems like it would be an appropriate use. Perhaps the lifeboat people would have a use for Segways too.

I understand why there are no motorised vehicles allowed along the Promenade from New Brighton back down to the ferry terminal at Wallasey (I think that is King's Parade isn't it?). That said, what do others think of a small, Postman Pat type electric bus linking the 2 areas up? There would be no pollution and importantly it would also be silent. Would the residents object? I think they would be handy for old people and the infirm.

I understand why there are no motorised vehicles allowed along the Promenade from New Brighton back down to the ferry terminal at Wallasey (I think that is King's Parade isn't it?). That said, what do others think of a small, Postman Pat type electric bus linking the 2 areas up? There would be no pollution and importantly it would also be silent. Would the residents object? I think they would be handy for old people and the infirm.

In the very distant future I believe trams will run right along the prom from the proposed new tram scheme in Birkenhead.

Kings parade is the part between the Marine Lake and Harrison Drive. It was built mostly using fill created when the first Mersey road tunnel was bored out. As a result it was somehow the property of the Borough rather than a public highway. And Wallasey corporation could, and did, close Kings Parade to allow motorcycle racing. If memory serves the last race was somewhere around year 2002 and ended in a tragedy. I recall watching motorcycles races there (and on the foreshore) in the 1960s with my long deceased father.
So my guess is that if the lawyers look into it, there is probably a legal device that would permit Segways on Kings parade and the foreshore even though they are banned in most of Britain.

As to the Victorian prom to Seacombe, a problem in providing dual-purpose trams (or trolleybuses or similar) to benefit both tourists and locals (as is done elsewhere) is that for much of the distance the streets up from the prom are extremely steep. Older folks loaded down with shopping in the rain would find walking up to Seabank Road arduous.

One possible solution might be to make the trams single track - Southbound only on the prom and Northbound only on a different return route. Reversing the direction on Summer weekends perhaps. There is probably only room for a single track safely at ground level anyway.

Though frankly, given the economics, a copy of the ultra-PRT system at Heathrow seems a better bet (assuming that it proves a success at Heathrow - I see it is delayed yet again!). Having said that, extending the heritage tram tracks to Hamilton Square and to the Irish and Seacombe Ferries would have a huge cachet while serving a dual purpose.

Kings parade is the part between the Marine Lake and Harrison Drive. It was built mostly using fill created when the first Mersey road tunnel was bored out. As a result it was somehow the property of the Borough rather than a public highway. And Wallasey corporation could, and did, close Kings Parade to allow motorcycle racing. If memory serves the last race was somewhere around year 2002 and ended in a tragedy. I recall watching motorcycles races there (and on the foreshore) in the 1960s with my long deceased father.
So my guess is that if the lawyers look into it, there is probably a legal device that would permit Segways on Kings parade and the foreshore even though they are banned in most of Britain.

I see no reason why they cannot have a lane dedicated to these forms of transport OR even for a lekky bus. The parade is certainly wide enough (in fact I am sure that the new improvements by Neptune have actually widened the prom in parts).

Already theres a bicycle route, why not other forms of green transport, as you mention?

As to the Victorian prom to Seacombe, a problem in providing dual-purpose trams (or trolleybuses or similar) to benefit both tourists and locals (as is done elsewhere) is that for much of the distance the streets up from the prom are extremely steep. Older folks loaded down with shopping in the rain would find walking up to Seabank Road arduous.

One possible solution might be to make the trams single track - Southbound only on the prom and Northbound only on a different return route. Reversing the direction on Summer weekends perhaps. There is probably only room for a single track safely at ground level anyway.

Though frankly, given the economics, a copy of the ultra-PRT system at Heathrow seems a better bet (assuming that it proves a success at Heathrow - I see it is delayed yet again!). Having said that, extending the heritage tram tracks to Hamilton Square and to the Irish and Seacombe Ferries would have a huge cachet while serving a dual purpose.

Neil Scales was on Pete Price a while ago going into great detail about merseytravels plans. They are going to start with a tram line using the existing Heritage line and extending this to Shore Road to a new MT attraction at the Pacific Road Arts centre. From there the trams would go to Wirral Waters (though no specific route was given).

Scales said on the show that in future it was possible to run a line "down the promenade" serving Seacombe possibly down to the town hall, but did not go into any more detail other than to simply suggest it as a line 2.

I would suggest that running the trams down a regenerated king Street, serving this area and town hall, then running down one of the less steeper streets towards New Brighton onto the promenade to the old Chelsea Reach/Tower Grounds would be a good route.

It would be many, many years away but I believe that if New Brighton gets the additional millions of visitors that Neptune are predicting in their brochures over the next 20 years a business case will have been made.

^^

Thanks for the above posts, seems my idea was not too far fetched then. What I was thinking really, was a something for the tourists/promenaders rather than the local residents. A little elecy bus would do just nicely for now.

duplicate

Hi everyone - first post on this site

As a resident of New Brighton i'm looking forward to the completion of phase 2. The 'new' promenade is already an improvement and the development is starting to take shape. Just a few general thoughts:

1. In my opinion a place that has a variety of different people makes for an interesting town so it would be nice if the development had some of the following; cool bookshop, kite surfing store/hangout, outdoor chess tables (a la central park), bakery, some top end restaurants and some independent quirky coffee shops - probably too much to ask for but you never know

2. Regarding a tram line, i think the prom is too narrow and using seabank road would be better as this would in turn regenerate this area - particularly if the NB tram stop was at the bottom of Victoria Rd - this could be a happening street but at the moment its too cut off from the prom so a reason to go there would definately regenerate it - also a well defined link between Victoria Rd and the Prom would take the regeneration inland

3. New Brighton to be Santa Monica in 10 Yrs time???

Hi everyone - first post on this site


3. New Brighton to be Santa Monica in 10 Yrs time???

Only of they plant a boulevard of palm trees up the prom, a la Southport, cant see that happening though with the lack of 'outside the box' thinking by our council... they should do it though..

On a more serious matter though, I'm interesting to see how it will turn out, as I am a frequent visitor to New Brighton myself

I was 1/2 joking about Santa Monica but i did visit there many years ago and it had everything you would want from a beach town. Thinking more seriously about Victoria Road, it isnt a through road for traffic so would be perfect as a pedestrianised road with the main tram stop at the bottom where currently there is a turning roundabout. This would soon become a happening street which could be a bit more offbeat and independent than the main development on the front - what do people think?

I was 1/2 joking about Santa Monica but i did visit there many years ago and it had everything you would want from a beach town. Thinking more seriously about Victoria Road, it isnt a through road for traffic so would be perfect as a pedestrianised road with the main tram stop at the bottom where currently there is a turning roundabout. This would soon become a happening street which could be a bit more offbeat and independent than the main development on the front - what do people think?

you can also have all the homeless people and beggars that hang around the pier and prom.

Hey blue - i was originally going to hope for NB as venice beach but i thought that might be a bit too wild...

Its a shame that phase 2 couldnt have involved some sort of role for Fort Perch Rock - arguably NB's biggest asset and its biggest white elephant. I think the fort makes NB stand out as something a bit different but unfortunately once you get inside it is so tired and run down as to be untrue. The guy who owns it is obviously passionate but lacks the funds and possibly the vision to go any further - if the NT or english heritage ran this place it could be the jewel in the crown - what do other people think?

Its a shame that phase 2 couldnt have involved some sort of role for Fort Perch Rock - arguably NB's biggest asset and its biggest white elephant. I think the fort makes NB stand out as something a bit different but unfortunately once you get inside it is so tired and run down as to be untrue. The guy who owns it is obviously passionate but lacks the funds and possibly the vision to go any further - if the NT or english heritage ran this place it could be the jewel in the crown - what do other people think?

Agreed, went for a nosey this afternoon and the overall progress of the NB development looks promising. The fort however is a pile of bricks with an entrance there is nothing inside, a cute operator as you have quoted would certainly make a difference.

As for all this talk of trams etc for the promenade bring back the minature railway that graced the Tower Grounds for so many years - nostalgia. :cheers:

Bee Gee,

I think there is a lot of nostalgia about New Brighton for many people - I still have fond memories of knocking my tooth out on the dodgems there - but what I have noticed is that the resort still attracted crowds of people even when there was precious little to do there.

My view is why stop with a tram and miniature railway, I would love to see a return of the ferry and the tower - a far better location than Blackpool I think.

More realistically, I agree about Fort Perch Rock - the place needs a lot of investment and it would probably do better under National Trust ownership - but the more people who visit the resort, the more chances of that I guess.

Bee Gee,

I think there is a lot of nostalgia about New Brighton for many people - I still have fond memories of knocking my tooth out on the dodgems there - but what I have noticed is that the resort still attracted crowds of people even when there was precious little to do there.

My view is why stop with a tram and miniature railway, I would love to see a return of the ferry and the tower - a far better location than Blackpool I think.

More realistically, I agree about Fort Perch Rock - the place needs a lot of investment and it would probably do better under National Trust ownership - but the more people who visit the resort, the more chances of that I guess.

Amen to that, I wasn't alive at the time the big New Brighton hey day was at its peak, but having seen photos of it in its time, a new tower and ferry would be a great stride to making NB unique... however unfortunately development use moves on, and I don't think the council or any development company would accept/draw up those plans sadly.

The first signing fronting the Marine Lake is an ice cream parlour,I'm sure it'll be popular but I can't say the same for the Mussel flavoured ice cream or the coffee though.:|

THE world’s first Mersey Mussel-flavoured ice cream, washed down with a £50 coffee will be on the menu at New Brighton’s £60m new seafront leisure parade.

The unusual flavour is part of entrepreneur David Dooley’s plan to help re-create the halcyon days when New Brighton was a key resort for thousands of day-trippers.

He hopes his forthcoming ice cream parlour, with many more conventional flavours too, will be a crowd-puller along with coffee shops and big-name restaurants, currently being built by developers Neptune.

Neptune has agreed with Mr Dooley that his company Cappuccinos will take up a unit in Marine Place overlooking the new seafront lake.

The Birkenhead-born businessman is determined his mouth-watering ice-cream will help bring the resort in from the cold.

Mr Dooley said he believes people will try some of the more unusual flavours just because the opportunity will be there.

He said: “We will be making our own ice-cream on the premises every day, striving for perfection every time.

“It will enable us to develop our very own distinctive flavours, such as Mersey Mussel flavour.

“Of course we will have a wide range of popular flavours to suit all tastes. We believe our new parlour will become a destination attraction for many day-trippers.”

David already owns Cappuccinos outlets in Birkenhead and at the new Floral Pavilion, but the ice-cream venture and coffee shop which will also serve Lavazza coffee, described as the world’s most popular, along with the world’s most expensive coffee.

The Lopi Luwak, at £50 a cup, is made from coffee beans eaten and then defecated by the Asian Palm Civet, a cat-sized mammal.

Mr Dooley said: “Because we will have our very own ice-cream plant we can be inventive and creative, and our customers can also come up with their own ideas for different flavours. We’ll have chilli-flavours for those who like hot and cold and bacon-and-eggs flavour ice cream.

“We will recruit staff locally and source as many supplies as possible from local providers. But at the same time we are prepared to search the world for the very best.”

Neptune director Rob Mason said: “We hope Cappucinnos will be the first of many local businesses to join in this exciting £60m regeneration of New Brighton.

“We are talking to a number of national and international operators eager to take space in our leisure development, being built alongside the new 64,000 sq ft Morrisons store.

“With a six-screen 1,100-seat digital cinema, a 66-bed Travelodge, a public performance space, ample car parking and new bus facilities the Marine Place development will add an estimated £21m a year to the local economy.”

Marine Place has space for another six leisure-based outlets, but with advanced talks already taking place Neptune says the scheme is well on the way to being filled.

The first signing fronting the Marine Lake is an ice cream parlour,I'm sure it'll be popular but I can't say the same for the Mussel flavoured ice cream or the coffee though.:|

Whose up for the bush tucker trial then? :badnews:

At that price not many I'd say.:eek: :)

...
More realistically, I agree about Fort Perch Rock - the place needs a lot of investment and it would probably do better under National Trust ownership - but the more people who visit the resort, the more chances of that I guess.
As my deceased mother told it, when the new promenade (Kings Parade) was built in the 1930s, the corporation borrowed the money to finance such reclaiming of land from the sea on the basis that the reclaimed land (modernly called "the dips") would be developed commercially and at good profit.

Somewhere along the road, NIMBYism stymied development, and then the war came.

What New Brighton has, and has long had, is pleasantly sited land recovered from the sea. And indeed, the potential to recover a great deal more exists.
So it is important that any changes, such as to National Trust ownership, do not get in the way of commercial development. I fear (perhaps irrationally) that an NT view of nearby developments as gaudy or out-of-place would cause problems.

Frankly, I see no good reason why a tower block hotel should not be built on the site of the piers. The land (land to be reclaimed from the sea), being publically owned, can and should be made available cheaply. The site is highly unusual in aspect and provides recreational aquatic/boating possibilities. Public sentiment could easily be won over with a design for a new tower that superficially (only superficially) resembles the demolished towers (dark stone cuboid atopped with open steel structure). After all, superficial and eccentric is what New Brighton was always about - and a good thing too for ordinary folk.

"The Lopi Luwak, at £50 a cup, is made from coffee beans eaten and then defecated by the Asian Palm Civet, a cat-sized mammal."

£50 for a cup of boiled cat shit. In New Brighton? This guy should be a billionnaire in no time. :nuts:

"The Lopi Luwak, at £50 a cup, is made from coffee beans eaten and then defecated by the Asian Palm Civet, a cat-sized mammal."

£50 for a cup of boiled cat shit. In New Brighton? This guy should be a billionnaire in no time. :nuts:

Hi there , gorgeous!

Hi Openly Jane

Where exactly are you proposing this new tower block hotel should be built? As far as the dips are concerned building on them would be detrimental to NB - Open space like this is rare and they are always heaving with people - development is more than just buildings - people need space to breathe...

Bee Gee,

I think there is a lot of nostalgia about New Brighton for many people - I still have fond memories of knocking my tooth out on the dodgems there - but what I have noticed is that the resort still attracted crowds of people even when there was precious little to do there.

My view is why stop with a tram and miniature railway, I would love to see a return of the ferry and the tower - a far better location than Blackpool I think.

More realistically, I agree about Fort Perch Rock - the place needs a lot of investment and it would probably do better under National Trust ownership - but the more people who visit the resort, the more chances of that I guess.


Looking at Newbie over the weekend the lack of a ferry terminal is glaring. The cost of restoration should not be prohibitive and it is something I would applaude. The 'but' is that for it to be successful Liverpool people would need to use the service and does the infrastructure at the Pier Head still exist to support this - i.e. buses and/or adequate parking?

As for Fort Perch Rock this really is a wasted opportunity surely there is something that can be done here. It is at this moment four walls with nothing inside - crying shame.

I could imagine that a summer only service, adding New Brighton into the existing Birkenhead/Wallasey/Liverpool cruises would be both profitable and a great boost to the town's economy. Seeing how the Liverpool service managed to survive for a couple of years on a second hand jetty and a portakabin, a quick restoration job in New Brighton could bring the service to the town pretty cheap.

Maybe it wouldn't justify a commuter service (at least not initially), but I could see a lot of tourists willing to nip across there for a day or afternoon as the leisure provision improves.

The ferry pier could not be greatly far from its historic site because of the need for relatively deep water. But much of that area that used to be commercial is now residential and cannot really be converted back.

The solution is to reclaim more land from the sea and dedicate it to commercial purposes. Fort Perch Rock was reclaimed land almost two centuries ago. There is plenty of scope to acquire more. I'm sure the Crown Agents or whoever owns the seabed would allow development as long as it did not interfere with estuary maritime operations.

There's the whole Burbo Bank to land grab if anyone is so-inclined.

Weren't plans for a new pier passed a few years back or did I imagine it? Maybe it was just (the latest) proposal :dunno: That boring Merseyferry 'cruise' that hugs the northern docks might just as well go straight to NB, and the one that goes south can go to New Ferry. Both destinations have great views back to Liverpool that will be appreciated by the tourists who take the cruise.

Its a shame that phase 2 couldnt have involved some sort of role for Fort Perch Rock - arguably NB's biggest asset and its biggest white elephant. I think the fort makes NB stand out as something a bit different but unfortunately once you get inside it is so tired and run down as to be untrue. The guy who owns it is obviously passionate but lacks the funds and possibly the vision to go any further - if the NT or english heritage ran this place it could be the jewel in the crown - what do other people think?

The Fort is actually one of the best music venues in Merseyside for genuinely underground dance music and bands. It's a fallacy that the Fort is not used or valued.

I have had some great nights in there sweating to hell and gurning my box off to some of the great raves they've had in there over the years and i've had many mates in bands play in the 'battle of the bands' style contests there and improve on their sound.

I'm dead against any EH or natrional trust involvement as that would be knocked on the head immediately and a genuinely unique musical asset for the more underground music will be lost (already lost the Picket). Furthermore any plans for conversion to make it relevant will inevitably be knocked back.

The Fort has a boss little pub with really low ceilings and mad mock tudor pub style fittings within it . You'd never know it was there! That pub could be expanded greatly. The center courtyard for example would make a superb outdoor bar/resturant.

If it was converted into a venue not unlike the Masque (in terms of retaining some historical features, as they've done there with the ampitheatre) with more bars a better and more integrated soundsystem it would make for something very special and totally different to what the Laycocks are offering at RJ's and The (cring!) Playa$ Lounge.

I do accept that the fort is underutilised during the day and this is where a pub bistro aspect that is open regularly and well publicised would be something that I would suggest.

It just needs a good business plan and some investment. It could be any number of things.

The fort could do with being in the hands of a Korova style club/bar/resturant business who know the youth market and have young promoters who can attract touring bands and international DJ's.

I see no reason why you couldn't have Evol style nights in there.

I think New Brighton in general needs to have someone employed either by the council or by a co-operative of the businesses down there to try and attract stuff like T4 On The Beach or Radio 1 Summer Roadshows.

These would fit with ease on the dips and since WBC own the Kings Parade and all land (interestingly the whole road is apparantly not part of the road network), they have the power to close of and police properly the entire area.

I see no good reason why a tower block hotel should not be built on the site of the piers. The land (land to be reclaimed from the sea), being publically owned, can and should be made available cheaply. The site is highly unusual in aspect and provides recreational aquatic/boating possibilities. Public sentiment could easily be won over with a design for a new tower that superficially (only superficially) resembles the demolished towers (dark stone cuboid atopped with open steel structure). After all, superficial and eccentric is what New Brighton was always about - and a good thing too for ordinary folk.

Indeed. If you tell the arl-arses that you want to build a tribute building to the old New Brighton tower you'd have unanimous backing. This need only be a tall building with a feature NBT style 'spire' on the top, with a public viewing deck on the top.

I live virtually next to the old Hotel vic which is an abandoned site for a failed development of flats. I have always thought that this spot is ideal for another large feature building. A tall there would enjoy ridiculously amazing views of the entire region from Liverpool waterfront, right round the sea front taking in wallasey beach and visability to the nporth Welsh hills.

Looking at Newbie over the weekend the lack of a ferry terminal is glaring. The cost of restoration should not be prohibitive and it is something I would applaude. The 'but' is that for it to be successful Liverpool people would need to use the service and does the infrastructure at the Pier Head still exist to support this - i.e. buses and/or adequate parking?


A new Pier head or ferry terminal of some kind would be the making of the ferries. I would be very suprised if this doesn't become a priority for WBC, Neptune and Merseytravel in the middle of the next decade.

Neptune are expecting an additional half million visitors to New Brighton per annum on top of the current trade. An additional 21 million pound spend (which is why they are having no problem pre-letting). They're sticking in more car parking in expectation of many more people coming into town.

I am naturally pessimistic about the hype from most schemes, but with this Neptune development I am fairly convinced that it will be a success. If you brought the ferries to a resurgent and popular New Brighton it could be the mutual making of both the ferries and the resort.

Interesting points about Fort Perch Rock as a music venue - sounds good the way you 'spin' it. However, its a historical building and this should be its selling point. NB should have something for everyone and to be fair music venues can exist in lots of different places - the fort is unique and should be restored (bar and resturant included). I went there a while back to see a beatles exhibition and found the room locked, when opened it was covered in dust and there where power tools lying around on the floor - dangerous and amateur. Its role as a museum works well but the whole place needs a revamp - If you gave me £1000 tomorrow i (or anyone) could improve it 100% just by cleaning it, painting it and asking for some advice on how to restore and market it historically.

You make some valid points evertonian but with the new development being 'new' NB needs some history to give it soul (and i dont mean music)

Interesting points about Fort Perch Rock as a music venue - sounds good the way you 'spin' it. However, its a historical building and this should be its selling point. NB should have something for everyone and to be fair music venues can exist in lots of different places - the fort is unique and should be restored (bar and resturant included). I went there a while back to see a beatles exhibition and found the room locked, when opened it was covered in dust and there where power tools lying around on the floor - dangerous and amateur. Its role as a museum works well but the whole place needs a revamp - If you gave me £1000 tomorrow i (or anyone) could improve it 100% just by cleaning it, painting it and asking for some advice on how to restore and market it historically.

You make some valid points evertonian but with the new development being 'new' NB needs some history to give it soul (and i dont mean music)

Music IS part of the history of it though.

I take your point on it needing a cash injestion. I've always got the impression that the owners can't be arsed and think that because they initially "saved" the building, they don't need to do anymore and people should be gratefull. As you've say, just restoring it as a nice pub/bar with a resturant would be a great start and i'm suprised they haven't bothered considering food and drink is such a big earner for the Queens over the road in a MUCH less interesting and unique building.

If the venue is such a good one for music, this should be another area where the owners are really ramping up the offerings - outdoor concerts, dance music, perhaps outdoor theatre and comedy during the summer. Weekend dance music in the courtyard, classical recitals during the week, something like that.

If the venue is such a good one for music, this should be another area where the owners are really ramping up the offerings - outdoor concerts, dance music, perhaps outdoor theatre and comedy during the summer. Weekend dance music in the courtyard, classical recitals during the week, something like that.



All of that sounds ace and with the Floral and their expertise just over the road you would think it would be easy enough to organise the odd outside concert or theatrical performance in the courtyard of the fort.

As I said before I think the people who own the fort are a bit out of it and don't really know what they are doing. Any nights thats go down there tend to be organised by plucky young promoters who approach the owners and get the go ahead as long as the promoters manage it ok and pay for security.

That aside they are not experts in promotion (they don't even have a working website for the fort) and what i'd like to see is a propper promotions company brought on board OR a total buyout of the fort by a company along the lines of Korova/Alma De Cuba who could manage it properly and bring something special to the table.

A band at the fort.

http://static.flickr.com/3456/3267252903_5f6516622f_b.jpg



The UV rave night at the fort

http://www.wikiwirral.co.uk/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/download/Number/22678/filename/7%20copy.jpg

There are a shed load of (some free) events going on at the Floral Pavilion in conjunction with the International Guitar Festival - get them on the website.

more steel has gone up next to the travelodge and steel is going up around the marine lake

Thanks Bowker,I'm looking forward to going for a day out here.

Some pics of the development at New Brighton showing the new hotel, promenade and boating lake:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5072286078_2d7b3dfcd1_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5071676961_8ded772b61_b.jpg

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http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5072264634_7af599621a_b.jpg

Nice new jetty leading down to the water. I hope they continue this style of railings all around the lake...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5071653273_e16a1567a2_b.jpg

Thanks for the update Wally.:)

I was in NB yesterday and notice much more work getting done now, it was seemingly quiet beforehand but things really starting to happen.

When was the completion date meant to be? was in 2011 or 2012?

Thanks for the photos Wally. :cheers:

It's good to see different views of the development, as the webcam (here (http://www.wirralcam.org/feeds/NBPhase2.jpg)), as useful as it is, doesn't give you a true idea of the scale of the progress so far.

When was the completion date meant to be? was in 2011 or 2012?

If all goes to plan, it should be complete in August 2011.

WIRRAL'S Floral Pavillion Theatre has beaten the likes of Liverpool Echo Arena to win a top award.

The New Brighton theatre was named Best New Building in the Merseyside Civic Society's awards scheme.

Designed for Neptune Developments by Liverpool architect Ken Martin, the Floral Pavillion is already being hailed as one of the region's finest new structures.

Ken Martin said: “I was very pleased with the award and was pleasantly surprised by it as we were up against the arena. The Floral Pavilion Theatre is a building that is used by a lot of the public and it is a building for them. Its context is the seafront and it is a panoramic building, a social building and a friendly ‘easy-to-use’ building hopefully one that will make a lot of people happy.”

Rob Mason, Development Director at Neptune, said he was delighted The Floral Pavilion Theatre had received this accolade.

Rob said: “The judging criteria to win the award was that the new building should by virtue of its form, features and/or function be of evident merit and make a substantial contribution to the place and/or space around it.

“It should also make a positive contribution to the quality and appearance of the townscape and take appropriate account of the context in which it is located.

“The fact that the Floral Pavilion Theatre won the award means that it is evidently all of these things, plus as Ken Martin said earlier, it is very much a building to be well utilised by the community of New Brighton and its visitors.”

I guess from a 'civic' standpoint that makes sense - the pavilion does provide a welcome boost to that part of the metropolitan area.

Structural steelwork (in Morrisons yellow) is now going up on the supermarket section of this development. There has also been good progress on the Travelodge/cinema building, and the restaurant buildings lining the edge of the marine lake

Webcam image - http://www.camserv.co.uk/neptune/nb_phase2.htm

Structural steelwork (in Morrisons yellow) is now going up on the supermarket section of this development. There has also been good progress on the Travelodge/cinema building, and the restaurant buildings lining the edge of the marine lake

Webcam image - http://www.camserv.co.uk/neptune/nb_phase2.htm

Glad to see the frame work going up, I was initially sceptical that it would be completed by Aug '11, and I am still a little, but my main thought was if it was going to have any chance of being completed by then each structure needed to be worked on simultaneously.

It surprised me looking at the plans that the car park will be bigger than the actually area which contains buildings itself!

From Neptune's webcam mounted on the Belgravia Hotel.

Moving at a fair old lick at present.

The yellow element was only started within the past 3 weeks or so and the bit to the left in the past few days. The portion to the right progresses seemingly in fits and starts but given the speed of construction elsewhere, it hardly seems to matter at the moment. :cheers:

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/6336/nbphase2.jpg

From the Daily Post -

Neptune begins final push on New Brighton Marine Point scheme

Jan 3 2011 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

THE vision of a £65m revamp to a Wirral seaside resort has been unveiled by developers, as they prepare a final push to attract new businesses to the site.

Neptune, the company behind the transformation of New Brighton, is aiming to sign up tenants for the massive scheme now re-branded as Marine Point, the largest such development in Wirral for decades.

Already Morrisons and Travelodge are on board for the scheme, with a 1,000-seat six-screen Light Cinema also part of the development which is taking shape on the seafront.

Development director for Neptune, Rob Mason, said the scheme was on track for completion through summer, 2011, as he revealed a new fly-through showing of what the finished scheme will look like.

The fly-through of the scheme is intended to showcase to potential investors how the retail space totalling 40,000 sq ft and leisure space – with external waterside seating – also totalling 40,000 sq ft, works together.

There is also a standalone leisure building offering 23,000 sq ft over two floors with a heated external open-air Lido.

Mr Mason said the hotel was expected to open around June, with the cinema following in August and the Morrisons supermarket opening in September.

Full article here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/01/03/neptune-begins-final-push-on-new-brighton-scheme-92534-27923536/

It appears that some cladding has gone up. Cheap, nasty looking grey plastic tiles generic to any out of town retail park.

It looks like the stadium element from Destination Kirkby.

*shakes head*

It appears that some cladding has gone up. Cheap, nasty looking grey plastic tiles generic to any out of town retail park.

It looks like the stadium element from Destination Kirkby.

*shakes head*

I can only see it on the webcam. It looks quite dull, might just be the inner leaf, with cladding yet to go on? Looking at renders in the brochure, the cladding is white and beige.

I think it's a great addition no matter what it looks like,I'm genuinely excited about this now.

I'm guessing this is that video:

http://www.marinepoint.co.uk/Site_Plan/Video_Fly_Through.aspx

Can't say I'm too keen on the cladding on the cinema and the restaurants.

Nice logo though! :D

17675133

Doesn't look like cladding to me. Looks like the new year's resolution to not be a miserable, negative sod with little or no justification didn't last. :)

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/6336/nbphase2.jpg

You're right,that's never cladding.

That picture is from the wrong angle.

The cladding is on the marine lake side of the building.

We'll have to get the Belgravia hotel moved 50 yards to the right so the webcam picks it up. :)

The cladding has started to go up on the you can see on webcam

Great progress here. Courtesy of Wirralcam

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/6336/nbphase2.jpg

Pics by Cassini2008 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/28411479@N08/)

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5211/5416345575_4fb68a3479_b.jpg

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Why do these buildings have 3-4 signs all on the same facade identifying one establishment? I never understand the overuse of signage on buildings and their ugly corporate identity's that are untamed and just applied with no finesse or thought to fairly decent architecture. I think this development has potential it's not amazing but it's been downgraded in my opinion by thoughtless approach to the tenants clashing identities. perhaps look into a more lighter approach and homogeneous typographical look that doesn't just look like a el cheapo place to visit.

from my phone

oi2xospx2AI

With the recent good weather it appears that 'the season' has started in new Brighton with lots of people about. I've always thought that a bike hire shop or stand would do well in New Brighton. A base at Seacome Ferry and another at the new development would be perfect allowing visitors in both directions to enjoy the promenade before dropping off the bikes to enjoy attractions or use the ferry service - if i had the money i would set this up myself!

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5144/5628932254_d3a1e558b0_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5024/5628343625_cef67f955f_b.jpg

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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5110/5628337017_4fa825a2f2_b.jpg

Thanks for the update kat. :cheers:

Architecturally, it's a bit 'meh' (which I suppose is better than being bad), but there's no denying the positive impact this development will have on New Brighton once its open.

New Brighton construction works April 17
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5069/5628918328_b4cb5c9673_b.jpg

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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5628310311_86b1d7154d_b.jpg

Lido Pool Construction
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5628925960_cdbc4a4d8f_b.jpg

Thanks for the updates everyone.

:cheers:

How it will look:

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb4.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb5.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb6.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb1.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb2.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb3.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb7.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb8.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb9.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb10.jpg

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/developments/showdevelopment.asp?recordid=71

Am I right in thinking the lido will be only for users of the adjacent health club.
/payment for public? Furthermore unless its heated I cant imagine many winter users

I used to love the original pool, this looks like a puddle in comparison, pathetic.

http://www.neptunedevelopments.co.uk/devimages/nb5.jpg

From the Daily Post -

£6million Grosvenor casino planned for New Brighton scheme

CASINO operator Grosvenor are the latest investor in the regeneration of a Wirral seaside town.

The company plans to spend £6m fitting out a new casino in the scheme, creating 120 jobs – but the plan effectively spells the end of a major redevelopment in central Birkenhead.

Grosvenor had been linked with a major regeneration project at Europa Boulevard, adjacent to Conway station and close to the main town centre. However, this was abandoned by the council last year.

With the completion of the final phase of New Brighton’s £65m redevelopment in sight, Rob Mason, development director for Neptune, said Grosvenor’s decision to invest in the seaside resort was “fantastic news” which could help attract other major national chains to the scheme, known as Marine Point.

Neptune are in talks with a number of operators for bars and restaurants there as the building work continues to progress.

The developers are set to hand over the supermarket building to Morrisons next week to allow fitting out to begin within weeks in preparation for opening in October – a key month which should also see the opening of a digital cinema, the Light.

Prior to that, the Travelodge hotel is expected to open in August, followed in September by some of the restaurants – the remainder of which are expected to open later in the year.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/04/29/6million-grosvenor-casino-planned-for-new-brighton-scheme-92534-28602685/

I was over in New Brighton the other day, and I must admit, although still nothing special, this development does look better in the flesh so to speak, than it does in photos.

Interesting development Chris, I wonder whether they will incorporate it into the Marine Point building complex or whether it will be a separate building altogether.

A casino is more seaside-esque than a supermarket, and will make just as much revenue.

I wonder what impact itll have on Bright Spot?

Courtesy of Wirralcam

http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/6336/nbphase2.jpg

Maybe it's the light but I think the building looks pretty awful in that webcam image !

Although its not something i would probably use personally i think the Casino is a good idea for New Brighton, particularly if it attracts more investment. I was in Southport today and most of the new development there is empty. It would also be good to see some more quirky independent offerings in the new development (if they can afford it) - failing that would be good to see the feel good factor spread to Victoria Road - Shame the 2 areas arent linked more effectively as in Liverpool1 and the Albert Dock (or Santa Monica Boulevard and the LA promenade)...

... i think the Casino is a good idea for New Brighton,... - failing that would be good to see the feel good factor spread to Victoria Road - Shame the 2 areas aren't linked more effectively as in Liverpool 1 and the Albert Dock ...
The reneging on the agreement to put in ground floor retail to the immediate East of the Floral Pavilion pretty much assures that further development, if any, will be to the West.

Commercial New Brighton has always been brash, loud and unrestricted by nostalgia. And catered to the section of the community who like it that way.
At the time of its construction (late 1930s) it was always the intention that the area now known as the dips would be developed commercially by the leisure industry. Wallasey Corporation held the land (which was reclaimed from the sea in case that is not obvious to the younger generation) for that purpose. Then of course the war came along and everything has to wait giving the ever present danger of NIMBYism a chance to get organised.

Further land reclamation as part of multiple purpose schemes is certainly possible, but it makes sense first to allow leisure industry development on the dips in the hopes of reaching a critical mass and that, if anything, will save Victoria Road.

I have to say Holly i totally disagree with you about the dips - They are what make New Brighton unique and give it a sense of space - i would be in favour of developing the whole area as a park with more trees and some low impact leisure facilities such as a running track. I'm in favour of the new development but any more new buildings would make NB just another concrete seaside resort. In my mind Victoria Road has the potential to be another 'Lark Lane' if business owners got their heads together and came up with a offbeat vibe which they could market. It hasn't been mentioned on here for ages but a tram running from Seacombe Ferry down seabank road and terminating in Victoria Road would regenerate this route - Im sure this was mooted a while back by mersey travel - or have i imagined it?

I dont think they could build on the dips, i heard they are there to hold flood water when there are bad storms, my grandad has picrures of them full of water

... It hasn't been mentioned on here for ages but a tram running from Seacombe Ferry down seabank road and terminating in Victoria Road would regenerate this route - Im sure this was mooted a while back by mersey travel - or have i imagined it?
The problem is that the road is not modernly wide enough to have a two-way tramline even though there once was one.
So it would have to be a one-direction part of a circular route.

The alternative is to use trolley buses, which would be distinctive enough to bring some enthusiasts.

But I think a mixture of modern trams with historic vehicles on high days and Holidays would be more attractive. I wonder if the old Royal Iris publicity bus can be found hidden and forgotten in a barn somewhere :)

I'm not entirely sure that with the Marine Point development that New Brighton can even be called a 'resort' anymore. Seems to me it will be a seaside town but lacking the true seaside resort characteristics.

Rhyl, Brighton, Blackpool, Torquay, Llandudno; these are true seaside resorts.

At the moment New Brighton is just about holding onto it's seaside resort character albeit very crumbled, these new development will kill off that nature, unless something with resort character is built.

A casino will go a long way to help that status, hotels do this even more. Also the re-introduction of a fun fair, or outdoor family activities will help seeing as the Wirral Show has bitten the bullet.

The worst thing that could be done, is that New Brighton is developed and just left to get on with it.

Stepr,

I agree with you to a point. New Brighton would develop much better with a coherent plan but it really depends on what you mean by a 'resort' - I think what people want/expect from a resort has changed and developed over the years - For example I would hate New Brighton to become Rhyll which is tired and depressing in my view. Another point to realise is that a new development should take into account people who live in NB not just potential visitors, although it is these people who obviously bring in the money.

Let’s examine what NB has or is going to get

Floral Pavilion, Marine Lake, Rebuilt children’s pool on beach, Model Boating lake, Fort Perch Rock (this does need work), Cinema, Casino, Bars and restaurants, coffee-shops and cafes, the beach itself, the dips, the promenade (surely one of the finest anywhere), The fitness centre, The amusement arcade and small fair, Sailing school, Close by parks, Bowling alley, Train station, Hotel, Tennis courts, Pitch and put – I’m sure there is more...

In my opinion NB now needs to look at some of the smaller things that visitors and residents alike would desire: I think all of the following are very achievable:

A pier, a running track on one of the dips, free outdoor fitness equipment, a children's play area, Improved crazy golf, facilities for the emerging kite surfing scene, Further promotion of responsible fishing (there is a new fishing shop in Victoria Road), Wildlife cruises and bird watching trips, bike hire facilities, some shops e.g. a book shop or small tourist shops, Ferry terminal – Again there are loads of small developments which others could suggest that could be incorporated into NB.

Any further big development would surely take away the green open space that NB has in abundance on the dips - although as I have mentioned earlier I would like the dips developed into a full scale park, with big trees and zoned into areas suited for particular activities. Any further development of bars and restaurants should surely progress into Victoria Road.

To sum up, the big 3 should be redevelopment of Fort Perch Rock, a Pier and the Ferry terminal

Stepr – What do you and others think?

Stepr,

I agree with you to a point. New Brighton would develop much better with a coherent plan but it really depends on what you mean by a 'resort' - I think what people want/expect from a resort has changed and developed over the years - For example I would hate New Brighton to become Rhyll which is tired and depressing in my view. Another point to realise is that a new development should take into account people who live in NB not just potential visitors, although it is these people who obviously bring in the money.

Let’s examine what NB has or is going to get

Floral Pavilion, Marine Lake, Rebuilt children’s pool on beach, Model Boating lake, Fort Perch Rock (this does need work), Cinema, Casino, Bars and restaurants, coffee-shops and cafes, the beach itself, the dips, the promenade (surely one of the finest anywhere), The fitness centre, The amusement arcade and small fair, Sailing school, Close by parks, Bowling alley, Train station, Hotel, Tennis courts, Pitch and put – I’m sure there is more...

In my opinion NB now needs to look at some of the smaller things that visitors and residents alike would desire: I think all of the following are very achievable:

A pier, a running track on one of the dips, free outdoor fitness equipment, a children's play area, Improved crazy golf, facilities for the emerging kite surfing scene, Further promotion of responsible fishing (there is a new fishing shop in Victoria Road), Wildlife cruises and bird watching trips, bike hire facilities, some shops e.g. a book shop or small tourist shops, Ferry terminal – Again there are loads of small developments which others could suggest that could be incorporated into NB.

Any further big development would surely take away the green open space that NB has in abundance on the dips - although as I have mentioned earlier I would like the dips developed into a full scale park, with big trees and zoned into areas suited for particular activities. Any further development of bars and restaurants should surely progress into Victoria Road.

To sum up, the big 3 should be redevelopment of Fort Perch Rock, a Pier and the Ferry terminal

Stepr – What do you and others think?

I cannot disagree with anything you've said in that post. I think New Brighton has alot of potential because it was once a popular seaside resort in it's hey day, it has the potential to become even more popular with tourists.

I totally agree with you about the pier, we have the architectural know how to build a storm proof pier, and a pier would be just fantastic, granted the sea is not always in, say like the pier at Llandudno, but it would be the icing on the cake to have a pier.. in fact if NB did have a pier, that alone would make it a true sea side resort.

I also believe like you the dips could be made into a park.. the one disappointing thing about New Brighton is the lack of landscaping, trees, vegetation. If you look at nearly all the other seaside resorts in the UK, they have vegetation to suit. Most of the vegetation is of the exotic variety which is suited to the coastal environment, I think NB should also go down this line. At the moment the vegetation is very boxed in and rather un-architectural.

A running track, and maybe a 5- side football pitch, hockey pitch in the dips would be a good idea.. maybe the new Health club could run it, that way there is no need to fence around it. (which would look ugly)

Tourist shop is an excellent idea, it's one of the most fundamental parts of a tourist resort! Ferry terminal could run history cruises, perhaps along the front of the Wirral coast, giving maybe a live talk about the history/interesting point of the north coast. The only problem there is the tidal range, it's probably best going east towards Liverpool as there is not tidal problem there.

I do believe once the general shape is in place, NB will slowly build up, and this can only be a good thing. I'm from Heswall myself but I love New Brighton and I'm optimistic for its future, and just hope that this development is catalyst for further social, infrastructure and local developments in the future. If the local people of New Brighton feel they are getting alot out of their town, then it will be viewed as a success.

From the Daily Post -

Wirral TUC to battle against £6m New Brighton casino plan

PLANS for a £6m casino, as part of a major development scheme in Wirral, face opposition from a local union.

Wirral TUC has launched a campaign against the Grosvenor casino which is set to be part of the Neptune development at Marine Point, in New Brighton.

However, Wallasey MP Angela Eagle has already given her backing to the plans for the casino and said it was “sad a handful of people” were trying to block it.

Leading the campaign against the casino Wirral TUC secretary Alec McFadden said he is “not anti- gambling” but added: “We now have a world-wide crisis of capitalism and banking with the highest-ever personal debt in the history of the UK in some parts of Wallasey, and Birkenhead, less than four miles from New Brighton, which has one of the highest cases of debt in the UK and mass unemployment.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/05/11/wirral-tuc-to-battle-against-6m-new-brighton-casino-plan-92534-28671150/

From the Daily Post -



Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/05/11/wirral-tuc-to-battle-against-6m-new-brighton-casino-plan-92534-28671150/

Oh dear, another attempt to derail something that could be beneficial to the local economy. Sadly I don't think TUC realise the very thing they suggest should not be done is actually the very thing that would boost the economy.

These people will plough us back into the dark ages!! They obviously cant see a good economic development when it comes along!

Oh dear, another attempt to derail something that could be beneficial to the local economy. Sadly I don't think TUC realise the very thing they suggest should not be done is actually the very thing that would boost the economy.

These people will plough us back into the dark ages!! They obviously cant see a good economic development when it comes along!

I think that's a bit harsh. It's one thing to be critical of people who block developments on self-interested or obviously spurious grounds. But I think at least questioning the value of a large casino, which has debatable benefits and obvious downsides, is totally legitimate.

I hope the tuc complained when manc got Blackpool's casino.

And when are they going over to Monte Carlo to have that place shut down.

Why is it that the left in Liverpool are always so fukn eager to jump on any bandwagon that leads to the fucking up of Liverpool's economy.

Can't someone teach these fuck-ups about how the world works and get them a psychologist while their at it, to help them get things in perspective.

I think that's a bit harsh. It's one thing to be critical of people who block developments on self-interested or obviously spurious grounds. But I think at least questioning the value of a large casino, which has debatable benefits and obvious downsides, is totally legitimate.
Thank you for restoring some dispassion to this debate.

The Wirral TUC certainly could have made it clearer where their objection lies.
An objection to gambling, and gambling made easier and romanticised, can be condemned on the grounds that it is regressive - it transfers wealth away from those who can least afford it.

But the Wirral TUC says their objection is not to gambling per se. Then to what? Yes, almost any development other than a casino would be a use healthier to the community (especially to the youth), but a casino is better than a vacant property, which might very well be the alternative in the circumstances. Even a few non-union jobs is better than no jobs at all.

One is tempted to think of things to "save people from themselves" (such as increased public drunkenness, drunk driving or destitution) encouraged by the casino. In the end you just have to let people take adult responsibility and beef up the policing when the place first opens.

Of course, the great hope is that any development leads to more development. Which was the purpose of building Kings Parade in the first place.

I can see the reason for a legitimate objection, for example it might attract the wrong kind of people, but for town which was until now really struggling to make any meaningful revenue, a Casino is worth the risk surely. How people behave with regards to gambling etc is entirely in the hands of the people who use it, and it is their responsibility to ensure they do not become the kind of thing NB doesn't want.

I think the potential benefits of a casino far outweigh the problems.. and this is coming from someone who doesn't gamble and probably never will.

It's not just the economic benefits that result, it's also the landscape and cultural benefits, for example, the atmosphere might be more like Blackpool with a Casino, which is hugely popular, and benefits markedly. Some people may not be a fan of Blackpool, but one things for sure, economically it doesn't do too badly, not in the centre anyway.

As said above it could potentially spin off more development, which people will appreciate in the long run.

If these development are prevented due to people objecting then the future looks bleak, mainly because there is no will to get change, jobs, and a healthy economy.

I often use this ideology when creating a garden.. get the main plants in first then fill with smaller more intricate stuff later, and I believe the same principle applies here; get the main economic driver in now (morrisons, the light etc), then get the smaller, aesthetic, tourism generating stuff in later.... The result is a very popular, good looking, well operating town.

The reason I sound harsh towards objections is because recently it seems almost every development has an objection, always by similar, or the same people

speaking from the point of view of someone who actually lives in new brighton, most people who live here dont want a casino. we have enough to put up with from the clubs emptying out at night. why does it have to be 24 hours a day ? an ice rink of a swimming pool bigger than my bath would have benefited the community as it would give new brightons young people something to do and brought in people from a wider area. i overlook this complex and it will be the best thing that has ever happened for us . but please not a casino.

... people who live here don't want a casino. we have enough to put up with from the clubs emptying out at night. why does it have to be 24 hours a day ? ...
Speaking as someone who has lived in a community with a casino, I can tell you that open 24 hours is more neighbour-friendly than closing at a fixed time when normal people are retired for the night and public transport is ended.

It is important to have a taxi rank; I don't doubt there will be one.

speaking from the point of view of someone who actually lives in new brighton, most people who live here dont want a casino. we have enough to put up with from the clubs emptying out at night. why does it have to be 24 hours a day ? an ice rink of a swimming pool bigger than my bath would have benefited the community as it would give new brightons young people something to do and brought in people from a wider area. i overlook this complex and it will be the best thing that has ever happened for us . but please not a casino.

Why not sell your house and go and live in the wilderness, far away from cities and other people and stop seeing places where people live and interact as a convenience created just for your benefit.

These nimby's really piss me off. It's epidemic in Liverpool isn't it, and look at the glorious results:nuts:

Why not sell your house and go and live in the wilderness, far away from cities and other people and stop seeing places where people live and interact as a convenience created just for your benefit.

These nimby's really piss me off. It's epidemic in Liverpool isn't it, and look at the glorious results:nuts:

I also live in New Brighton and personally dont have a problem with the casino - but surely developments like this need to serve the local community as well as attract people from outside - disagreeing with an aspect of a development isnt always NIMBYism; sometimes there is just a better approach or an alternative idea that is better. A casino does limit the number of people who will be attarcted to this section of the development.

I went and walked behind the development today on the coast path. The development is getting there.. the lido also looks bigger than I imagined.

The big let down though (and I was quite disgusted) was the neglectful nature of landscaping being done further up the road. They have used the wrong plants for the wrong setting. The grass they planted is dead, generally what they've done is a disgrace. Just because were in harsh economic times does not mean plant the most rubbish thing you can find (and also neglect it).

I seriously hope that they have not hired gardeners to choose and plant these landscaping plants because if they have, they need sacking. They planted a Birch which is dead, obviously couldn't tolerate the salt. The general quality of the plants is shameful from a gardeners perspective.

Sometimes they need to get their acts together with regard to aesthetic appeal.

On the topic of plants however, New Brightons lone standing Cordyline is going to look pretty special in a few years, I counted a total of 38 new shoots on it (thanks to this winter), thats going to be a rather special looking tree (if they dont cut it down). They should plant more of them.

I hear there will be a Sports Club in the new development. Can anyone tell me if this is true, and if so, does anyone know if it will be a Fitness First, Virgin, etc or a locally run one.
Many thanks.

Yes there will be a fitness centre - not sure who will run this. Some outdoor (free) fitness equipment would be a superb addition to the promenade though.

edit: [wrong thread]

http://www.marinepoint.co.uk/

[IMG]http://marinepoint.co.uk[/IMG

:banana:edit: [wrong thread]

Neptune hands over cinema for fit-out

13 Jun 2011, 10:27

The Light Cinemas will this week take possession of its site at Neptune Developments' Marine Point in New Brighton.

Altrincham-based GF Holdings will now begin the fit-out of the £5.5m eight-screen all digital cinema on schedule for the planned opening in October.

John Sullivan, one of the founding partners of the Light Cinemas, said: "The concept of The Light was born out of wanting to create a unique cinema offering to local communities, tailored to their own requirements. The Light Cinema New Brighton offers an inclusive experience targeting Wirral families, students, professionals and older members of the community. The Light will offer a range of onscreen content including Hollywood blockbusters and international films, broadcasts of 3D movies, live arts and sports programmes, film festival weeks, opera, theatre and concerts. Our key goal is to challenge the limited programming and mediocre customer service which has become associated with the multiplex market."

The Light opened its first cinema in Bucharest in 2008, followed by Halle, Germany in 2009 and there are plans to open three in Romania. The Light will take possession of its second UK multiplex in Cambridgeshire in 2012.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/news/archive/9278-neptune-hands-over-new-brighton-cinema-for-fit-out.html

An image from The Light's web page for New Brighton:

http://www.lightcinemas.co.uk/images/the%20light%20cinema0.jpg

http://www.lightcinemas.co.uk/

^^

I hate to be critical, but that looks very erm...seventies.

^^

I hate to be critical, but that looks very erm...seventies.

Seems to be the 'in' thing ,As the Hotel Indigo interior suggests.

I think it looks good ,It may date quickly though.

travelodge opens 24th of this month

C:\Users\joseph\Pictures\nbp2.jpg

This hotel will open on 1st July 2011

the travelodge

:bash:

:bash:

Have a look at this link - it tells you how to post images and YouTube videos etc. There's also a test page to practice on:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/forumdisplay.php?f=25

New Brighton casino plan gets go-ahead

Jun 23 2011

CONTROVERSIAL plans to open a casino at the heart of one of Merseyside’s biggest regeneration schemes have been approved.

The £6m scheme for a 24-hour G Casino, to be operated by Grosvenor in New Brighton’s Marine Point development, was given the green light by Wirral council’s licensing committee.

The meeting at Wallasey town hall saw Wirral Churches Together, which opposes the project, raise concerns about the effect on the community.

The Reverend Robert Nelson told the committee they were worried about the impact a casino could have on “young people and vulnerable adults in the area”.

But he admitted their worries were “alleviated” during a meeting with Grosvenor after hearing about the guidelines the casino would operate under, despite still having some “general concerns”.

The casino had applied for a 24-hour gambling licence as well as permission to sell alcohol from 8am to 6am, seven days a week, host entertainment seven days a week for 24 hours and a late-night refreshment licence to 5am.

Joy Hockey, of Wellington Road Conservation Society, raised concerns about possible noise from a smoking terrace, as well as more general disturbance from people leaving the casino late at night.

But Stephen Walsh, representing Grosvenor, said although entertainment would be held in the casino, it would be the likes of tribute acts and would be secondary to gambling.

He said: “It is highly unlikely people will be coming out and causing problems.

“We always aim entertainment at the kind of people who like to go to casinos. No self-respecting teenager would try and get into a G Casino to see this.”

Granting the application, committee chairman Cllr Andrew Hodson said Grosvenor should “open lines of communication” with the community to deal with possible complaints.

The Neptune scheme at Marine Point also includes a cinema, a variety of bars and restaurants and a Morrisons supermarket.

,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Preview of Neptune development in New Brighton as it nears completion

http://www.wirralnews.co.uk/videos-pics/wirral-photos/2011/06/21/preview-of-neptune-development-in-new-brighton-as-it-nears-completion-80491-28916328/

This hotel will open on 8th July 2011

A DIGITAL cinema at a major development in Wirral could show films throughout the night

The Light cinema is part of the Neptune development, Marine Point, in New Brighton, and is preparing to submit an application for a 24-hour licence.

John Sullivan, one of those behind The Light, which already has cinemas in Romania and Germany, said their intention was not to be regularly showing films through the night, but rather to allow for special occasions.

The company is also expanding from six to eight screens, which Mr Sullivan said was a "vote of confidence" in the development
He said: "It means, for example, we could have an all-night show for enthusiasts, or when a new Harry Potter film comes out we can show all the previous ones.

"But the thing about The Light is we are so far advanced in terms of technology, we are limited only by the imagination. So we can show sporting events, such as a Test Match in Australia.

"Or, if someone is getting married abroad and they want their family to see, it we can show a direct feed.

"If you don’t have the licence and something comes up, then you can’t do it."

The licensing application for The Light is due to be submitted soon, with the cinema expected to open in October.

The company is in the process of taking over the building from developer Neptune who have just submitted a series of licensing applications for the bars and restaurants which form part of the £60m redevelopment of New Brighton.

Most of the licence applications are provisional, as the company nears agreement with potential tenants.

A spokesman for Neptune said: "The licence applications are part of our general preparation and marketing. It’s about giving comfort to prospective occupiers in the leisure and restaurant sectors that the development is ready to meet their requirements.

"The licence for the public realm is especially important in terms of our plans to bring special events to Marine Point such as a proposed outdoor Christmas market. We want the site to be active and animated all year round to bring as many visitors as possible to New Brighton."

Last week, Grosvenor were given permission for a 24-hour casino operation at the Marine Point development. The £6million scheme by Grosvenor for a 24 hour ‘G Casino’ with alcohol and entertainments licences was given the green light by the local authority despite initial objections from local churches and some residents.

And this week is expected to see the official opening of the Travelodge hotel, while work on fitting out the Morrisons supermarket is also continuing.

Mr Sullivan said: "New Brighton is already a destination in the Merseyside psyche, but they know there is nothing much to do there. This development will change that completely."

Has there actually been any restaurant confirmations apart from that Cappuccinos coffee shop? Perhaps they're just not being reported but it's slightly concerning that the restaurants are such a main part of the scheme and we haven't heard anything about them.

I think Starbucks is a confirmed - it will be in the main building by the cinema!

Has there actually been any restaurant confirmations apart from that Cappuccinos coffee shop? Perhaps they're just not being reported but it's slightly concerning that the restaurants are such a main part of the scheme and we haven't heard anything about them.


This was from the 21st June.

Neptune is now in advanced negotiations with several restaurant chains to move into Marine Point.

Daniel Hynd, from the firm, said: “We are close to finalising agreements with bars and restaurants.”

Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2011/06/21/new-brighton-s-marine-point-development-nearing-completion-100252-28910236/#ixzz1R285ULQ3

I think Starbucks is a confirmed - it will be in the main building by the cinema!


NEW BRIGHTON | Unit 12 Marine Point

Mowbray Gill acting on behalf of Neptune Wirral have agreed a new lease to Euro Garages Ltd (t/a Starbucks). The premises were taken by way of a new 25 year FRI lease at a commencing rental of £45,000 per annum.

http://www.mowbraygill.co.uk/?m=201102


NEW BRIGHTON | Unit 1 Marine Point

Mowbray Gill acting on behalf of Neptune Wirral have agreed a new lease to a specialist Ice Cream Parlour. The premises were taken by way of a new 25 year FRI lease at a commencing rental of £51,760 per annum.

http://www.mowbraygill.co.uk/?m=201101


NEW BRIGHTON | Unit 15 Marine Point

Mowbray Gill acting on behalf of Neptune Wirral have agreed a new lease to Home Bargains. The premises were taken by way of a new 15 year FRI lease at a commencing rental of £162,750 per annum.

http://www.mowbraygill.co.uk/?m=201105

I'm not sure where Unit 1 is, but here's a plan showing where the other units are -

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee202/chrisbatesuk/newbrighton-1.jpg
Copyright to the copyright holder. Shown here for information purposes only.

NEW BRIGHTON | Unit 15 Marine Point

Mowbray Gill acting on behalf of Neptune Wirral have agreed a new lease to Home Bargains. The premises were taken by way of a new 15 year FRI lease at a commencing rental of £162,750 per annum.

That's extremely disappointing. The area around and including Unit 15 was supposed to be a leisure area, with a range of cafes/bars/restaurants together with the hotel and Marine Lake. I don't think planting a shop in the middle of all that is good at all. Indeed, if they're resorting to signing up retail rather than leisure tenants, and furthermore companies at the Home Bargains end of the market, it really doesn't bode too well for what might appear in the other units, and we probably shouldn't set our sights too high.

Wow that really is hugely disappointing.

Marine Point Site Plan.

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/8293/marinepointsiteplan.jpg

http://www.marinepoint.co.uk/

^^

In that case, I retract my previous comments regarding the placement of retail within the proposed leisure area. However I still feel there is cause for concern with regard to which tenants are being signed (not including the three anchors), in both the leisure and retail parts of the development.

travelodge is open now

Live webcam

http://www.wirralcam.org/csource/nbp2.jpg

From the Daily Post -

Mayor of Wirral opens new Travelodge in Wirral

THE Mayor of Wirral, Councillor Moira McLaughlin officially opened Travelodge’s first hotel in New Brighton.

The new 66-room property, which is the company’s 477th hotel represents a £2.3million investment in the seaside town and has created 15 new jobs within the Wirral community.

The hotel is located on Marine Point, overlooking New Brighton beach.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/07/19/mayor-of-wirral-opens-new-travelodge-in-wirral-92534-29077623/

Ice rink plan for New Brighton

AN OUTDOOR ice rink could be opened in winter at a Merseyside seaside resort.

The proposal was revealed today as part of an ongoing multi-million pound regeneration project in New Brighton.

It would be part of a £1.3m children’s play area to replace a planned health and fitness centre at the Marine Point scheme, which developers have now dropped.

The change to the £60m development, which is expected to be presented to Wirral council’s cabinet next month, would also see plans for a Lido shelved.

Instead, an indoor soft play area and outdoor water splash park would be built at Marine Point, with the splash park turning into an ice rink in the winter.

Developer Neptune today confirmed it has sealed a deal with play centre operator GloPlay to run the complex.

It will be located in the building previously earmarked for the health and fitness club, and was developed in response to community calls for more child-friendly facilities.

Neptune’s development director Rob Mason said: “What we found when talking to people was there was a real demand for a facility such as this, where children can play in safety and enjoy activities all year round.

“This will be a modern centre with a family-friendly appeal, combining indoor play with an outdoor splash park which can be adapted as an ice rink for winter use.”

The complex would include a 12,000 sq ft play centre on the ground floor and party rooms, education and fitness zones and a ceramic cafe on the first floor.

A play frame for up to 350 children, over five levels, would form the centrepiece of the facility, alongside a baby and toddler play area for up to 80 youngsters. New Brighton councillor Sue Taylor today welcomed the changes.

She said: “I think this will certainly enhance New Brighton’s profile as a family-friendly resort with activities to suit everyone, regardless of the weather.”

According to Neptune, learning about improved health through play and social interaction will be key features of GloPlay’s centre. Adults will also be offered computer classes while their children play.

The splash park will feature an outdoor heated pool, picnic benches and an outdoor food outlet.

Work on the scheme, which includes a Morrisons supermarket, casino and The Light digital cinema, continues to progress.

Mr Mason said terms had been agreed with major restaurant chains to take up much of the remaining space. He added: “We hope to be able to announce them within the next couple of weeks.”

This whole development is a real disappointment now.
More and more disappointing every day.

It's now only a draw for people who are attracted to a leisure destination that contains two massive soft play areas, a Morrisons, a Home & Bargain and a load of scruffy landscaping.
Liscard Mk II.

Planning still has to be approved, but, I think it sounds like a done deal. However, it's apparently what is wanted locally. Nobody asked me. :ohno:

The effect it will have on adventure land play area will be devestating.

This is really, really bad news.

I was looking forward to having a swimming baths and gym on my doorstep.

Ice rink plan for New Brighton
It certainly appears that the developers did not deal with the council in good faith.

I'm not sure what the sanctions should be, but there should be punitive sanctions of some kind. Otherwise developers are given the wrong incentives.

The lido being built was a very big part of this development appeasing those who were dead against it,it's wrong what the developers have done.This is how they sold it to the people.

Unfortunately though, it sounds as though the local council, as Sue Taylor says in her blog, always had this as their plan B. Moreover she seems to be advertising it as an even better solution than the pool. No chance democracy will work here I feel, perhaps I'm just cynical... I just feel the council and Neptune are really Selling out on the local residents. I wonder if the new tenant has done much market research on this, it just doesn't seem to add up.

yep stick a childrens play area next to a casino. :bash:

this venture has now gone a bit wayward.

So the pool will be dismantled I assume?

Wirral is becoming a fools playground as far as developments go. There will be very little to attract young adults (without a gambling problem) to New Brighton (apart from the odd night out at the cinema).

What a disastrous idea. The Lido was a classy, unique element of this scheme. I find it difficult to believe that there were hordes of angry parents besieging the developers, demanding soft play facilities. It's opportunism, plain and simple. With each new alteration to the scheme it sinks further down the scale - this is basically the Bromborough Retail Park by the sea now.

:cheers: it is looking good

http://www.lightcinemas.co.uk/

http://www.lightcinemas.com/

Opening December 2011, the cinema will have 8 digital screens with a café bar

I have to say I am so disapointed by this development and losing the lido is the final straw. It looks like a horrendous retail park on a bypass somewhere now, such a shame.

Yep Dan, it doesn't set the heart a flutter does it? Architecturally dreary as it may be it does represent relatively rare investment in that part of metro Liverpool and once it is all open will bring more people into Newb than come nowadays.

The Lido was the feature that stopped this becoming just another retail park.

The planners can't let this go ahead and this company can't be trusted.

New Brighton may as well sell themselves as Retail Park-on-Sea.

A softplay area wouldnt be my first choice and i have small kids - however, it was never going to be a swimming pool - go down and take a look at the size of the 2 pools - they are tiny and will work much better as a spash pool. Overall im impressed with the development but there are issues (the planting and shops such as H+B for example) - what needs to happen now is for wirral council to put their own masterplan in place to 'finish' off this development so that it will appeal to all - free outdoor gym equipment such as at Crosby marina would be a start

A softplay area wouldnt be my first choice and i have small kids - however, it was never going to be a swimming pool - go down and take a look at the size of the 2 pools - they are tiny and will work much better as a spash pool. Overall im impressed with the development but there are issues (the planting and shops such as H+B for example) - what needs to happen now is for wirral council to put their own masterplan in place to 'finish' off this development so that it will appeal to all - free outdoor gym equipment such as at Crosby marina would be a start
:lol: ^^
Four words that should never be used together... Wirral Council Master Plan.

The new Travelodge, to me, looks very prison-like. The Morrisons, to be honest, looks like something from the late 1970s, and this news that there'll be no lido means Marine Point will look like just another out-of-town retail park - i.e bland, uninspiring and completely lacking in any character. I can't see this will improve New Brighton in any way, but it would be nice to be proved wrong when everything opens!

next is the Residential

go for http://www.marinepoint.co.uk/Residential.aspx

I'm not under the illusion it will do anything, but has anyone written in and told how much of a farce this is turning into? It's about time they heard what the public really think, and also let the people in question know what we really think of their decision to turn this into the joke it is.

Did people realistically want a glorified play pen?

It would almost certainly fall on deaf ears, but it seems quality is often shelved for either money saving, health and safety or some kind of dreamed up moral ethics.

It makes me angry actually, there was a chance to transform New Brighton into an attraction, there is nothing attractive about NB now. Wirral Show is gone, and a business park built in one of the worst locations you can imagine (who builds a business park by the sea?)

I believe the final nail has been put in the New Brighton coffin.

Apologies if what I've wrote above comes off as claptrap, I'm just not happy at how Wirral is treated when it comes to developments.

next is the Residential

go for http://www.marinepoint.co.uk/Residential.aspx

I wouldn't hold your breath for that. Given everything else they've changed, I expect a "we are delaying the residential element until the property market improves". Forever.

Ice rink plan for New Brighton

I know this development is becoming a disappointment, but the ice rink could be a good thing; as it's the one thing that Merseyside is missing. It would be much better travelling to New Brighton as opposed to Queensferry.

hi all,

I've not read this whole thread as it dates back a while.

Noticed someone posting about the Cinema and it not opening until end of year.

Other than the Travelodge is there anything opened at Marine Point at all? Food places etc?

Staying at the Travelodge end of September for a few days had thought at least something must be opened :(

Hi Agent Smyth

In my opinion the only thing that has a chance of being open is the supermarket - not a big draw for a tourist. However, there are a few existing places worth a look. Try a meal at the Queens Royal pub which is opposite the new development (the last time I went they did carvery meals but also the usual type of mains - pretty good I think) - There are a couple of pubs nearby but there not up to much. I would either wander down the promande towards Seacombe (head towards the Liverpool skyline) and have a nice pint in The Magazine pub (Old style local about 1/2 mile away) or walk up towards Victoria Road and have a drink in Tallulahs which has its own unusual style. Other than that bowling is cheap before 12 and if you like walking then the promenade is great in either direction.

On another note - lots of negative reaction to the development recently. I have been to a couple of famous seaside resorts in Bondi beach and Santa Monica/Venice beach and they both have shopping centres etc. What they also have is lots of independent shops/eateries/facilities etc which is what this development will need to make it something a bit different - so i dont think the neptune plan is bad it just needs building on by the council and individuals. Some individuals need to be a bit more savvy in my opinion - for example the live music venue which has been taken over a few times recently has now resurfaced as a karaoke bar - its always dead - do people really come to NB to sing karaoke, I think not... Aim higher in quality and ideas and something good could emerge here. The Council need to link the promenade to Victoria Road which is mostly 'dead' but with 1 or 2 good places. If

I'm not under the illusion it will do anything, but has anyone written in and told how much of a farce this is turning into? It's about time they heard what the public really think, and also let the people in question know what we really think of their decision to turn this into the joke it is.

Did people realistically want a glorified play pen?

It would almost certainly fall on deaf ears, but it seems quality is often shelved for either money saving, health and safety or some kind of dreamed up moral ethics.

It makes me angry actually, there was a chance to transform New Brighton into an attraction, there is nothing attractive about NB now. Wirral Show is gone, and a business park built in one of the worst locations you can imagine (who builds a business park by the sea?)

I believe the final nail has been put in the New Brighton coffin.

Apologies if what I've wrote above comes off as claptrap, I'm just not happy at how Wirral is treated when it comes to developments.
Agreed!

Agreed!

Never a truer word said!
Casting my mind back - was the pool / health club not the trade-off granted so Morrison's could anchor the development? I wonder if there was any binding agreement made?
The lido building now is one good looking building out the whole development too...It's just a shame I wasn't consulted when they were guaging the public opinion that is so loudly demanding the need for more soft play areas. :nuts: I would have gone mental!

Can't think of a way to rescue the situation. A complete rethink is needed. I would like to sea some leisure facilities ie A Bunco Booth with a babboon doing tricks and a flea circus or a waterpark with deathslides, sort of thing.

From the Daily Post -

New Brighton New Palace owner fears he will be forced out of business by Neptune redevelopment

THE owner of the New Palace landmark in New Brighton fears he will be put out of business by last-minute changes to a major redevelopment scheme.

The £60m regeneration project to breathe new life into New Brighton is nearing completion, with Morrisons supermarket due to open this month and a cinema later this year.

But David Wilkie, whose family has owned the landmark New Palace, on the seafront, for a century, says changes approved by Wirral Council’s ruling cabinet to the scheme will have devastating consequences for his business.

He has also warned that the site of the historic Art Deco building has already proven attractive to potential investors for apartments – a route he may be forced to consider, although he insisted he wants to protect the jobs of 65 people who work for him by continuing.

The cabinet approved an application by Liverpool-based developers Neptune to use part of the site as a children’s “soft play area”, which Mr Wilkie says is in direct competition with his business, which he says brings in 250,000 visitors a year.

Previously, Neptune had said the building would be used as a health centre and gym, but told the council there was little or no interest from operators in this type of business.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/10/05/new-brighton-new-palace-owner-fears-he-will-be-forced-out-of-business-by-neptune-redevelopment-92534-29539806/

From the Daily Post -

Supermarket opens in New Brighton

A CONTROVERSIAL supermarket development in a Wirral seaside town has opened almost a decade after it was first mooted.

Morrisons opened its doors in New Brighton yesterday, with help from mayor of Wirral, Cllr Moira McLaughlin. Although the shop had some problems with traffic lights guiding entry into the car park, shoppers still arrived in large numbers.

The supermarket is part of a £60m scheme for the resort town, which had been though a public inquiry and major redesign from original plans.

Article continues here - http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2011/10/11/supermarket-opens-in-new-brighton-92534-29572687/

Have been to the new supermarket a few times - good enough for a supermarket although best to stick with ASDA for a big shop -