Residents have been informed of proposals to level the flats and build new homes on the site
09:59, 04 Jun 2025Updated 10:02, 04 Jun 2025
Knowsley Heights in Huyton
A 1960s tower block is set to be demolished as the company which owns it says maintaining the building is “no longer sustainable or affordable.” Residents of Knowsley Heights in Huyton have been informed by Livv Housing Group about proposals to level the flats and build new homes on the site.
Knowsley Heights was built in 1963 and despite investing more than £70 million into the apartment blocks, Livv says a significant, continued financial investment will be needed to sustain standards and modernise the building into the future – a cost which the company believes isn’t feasible.
In a letter seen by the ECHO, addressed to residents of the block and dated June 2 2025, Livv’s Director of Communities Sarah Smith said: “Dear resident, I’m writing to let you know that we’re currently consulting with our customers who live at Knowsley Heights about proposed plans to demolish the flats and move them to other homes on a permanent basis.
“Should plans go ahead, it’s proposed that new homes will be built on the site. Our proposals have been made following a thorough review of the buildings and the investment required to modernise them.”
Some examples of the works that Livv says are needed at Knowsley Heights include: renewing and updating the buildings’ insulation; repairing and modernising all balconies; making structural concrete repairs; replacing the roof and lifts; updating and improving the buildings’ drainage and ventilation systems; and replacing all windows and the buildings’ external cladding.
A consultation period for the demolition proposals began yesterday, Monday June 3 and will run until Friday June 27. Livv says it will listen to residents’ views, answer their questions, and support them “throughout the consultation period and beyond”.
Should plans go ahead, the company says its “number one priority” is finding suitable homes to meet residents’ needs. All tenants or joint tenants will be entitled to a Home Loss Payment.
The Home Loss Payment is determined by the government and in 2025 is £8,100.
Residents will also be eligible for a Disturbance Payment of £1,250. This payment is to cover any reasonable expenses incurred by needing to move home, such as removal costs or redirection of mail.
A spokesperson for Livv Housing Group told the ECHO: “We’re currently considering the future of the homes that we offer and the future of Knowsley Heights, making sure we can meet the needs of our communities.
“A big part of this journey will be hearing from our customers – understanding their thoughts and shaping plans together.
“So far, initial feedback from the community has been resoundingly positive, with many welcoming our vision for high-quality homes where customers can truly thrive.
“Homes that are eco-efficient, with improved green spaces and amenities that support health and wellbeing of those living in and around the site.
“We’re committed to supporting current Knowsley Heights customers every step of the way and we’ll be working closely with them throughout the process.
“Full support is available to help them navigate any future changes and find the right housing solutions if needed.”