A report by the Chair of the Committee set out the outcomes of a Scrutiny Workshop held in October for Members to scrutinise the latest developments of Wirral Waters. Members heard how the workshop was commissioned as part of the Business Overview and Scrutiny Committee’s work programme for the municipal year.

A workshop held on 16 October 2018 had been conducted through presentations delivered by the Assistant Director for Regeneration and Inward Investment and the Director of Development for Wirral Waters before being opened up to a question and answer session. Members from all four of Wirral’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees were invited.

The Director for Economic and Housing Growth reported that during the workshop, Members saw the overall vision. He informed the Committee of progress to date and that the Wirral Waters One Project had now been signed off and would be considered at a forthcoming Planning Committee. He advised that the project is beginning to move forward from vision to delivery and expressed the importance of the Council continuing with the same momentum.

In response to a question, the Director for Economic and Housing Growth reiterated the Council’s optimism and support for the Wirral Waters scheme. He further advised that a mixed approach should be taken to housing and that family housing is required.

In response to a further question, the Director likened the scheme to Salford Quays and drew upon the positive experiences from that project. In response to a comment by a Member, he then advised that the International Trade Centre that had been planned would not go ahead. He also informed Members that jobs could be developed locally and that the Council increasingly need to work alongside partners to develop skills.

The Director of Economic and Housing Growth highlighted the importance of the Wirral Waters One scheme in beginning to develop and move the project along.

Councillors expressed their support with the progress of the scheme and looked forward to the commencement of building works. Councillors then requested regular reports on the Wirral Growth Company and Birkenhead Town Centre.

Resolved – That the report be noted.