The sale in 2023 was controversial but changes could soon happen on the site
Bromborough Civic Centre and Library(Image: Google Street View)
Plans have been put forward for dozens of flats to be built on what was once a Wirral town’s library. Bromborough Civic Centre in Bromborough Village was closed in 2022 as part of sweeping cuts approved in that year’s budget.
The library and hall had faced the prospect of reopening with two highly rated bids put forward to take it over. However in July 2023, Wirral councillors made the controversial decision to sell off the library during a meeting closed to the public.
The civic centre was previously valued by the council as being worth £600,000.
The site was put on the market in 2024 and at the beginning of this year, the ECHO reported that it was being sold to McCarthy and Stone following eight bids. Bromborough Civic Centre cost Wirral Council about £31,500 a year to maintain despite being closed.
Plans have now been put forward by the retirement village developer for the former Bromborough Civic Centre. The firm said it would be specialist accommodation exclusively for those over 60 with indoor communal areas, landscaped gardens, and onsite parking.
McCarthy and Stone said: “This well-positioned site presents an ideal opportunity for much-needed retirement accommodation, with the amenities of Bromborough less than one mile away.” Forty six one and two bedroom high quality apartments are promised in a three storey building.
The firm said the scheme had been designed to reflect the surrounding area with a mix of red brick, white, and red roof tiles. Therw will be 32 car parking spaces as well as mobility scooter storage.
Trees that are already there will be kept around the edge of the site while new trees will be planted to improve biodiversity and provide a buffer between the new development and the surrounding area. With an ageing population in Wirral, McCarthy and Stone said the development would help address housing shortfalls for elderly people.
The development will be focused around the garden with a communal lounge spilling out onto a generous terrace and landscaped gardens. McCarthy and Stone said their design created “a prominent and attractive frontage along Allport Lane that reinforces the building line while offering a beautifully landscaped bund between the building and the road.”
People will be able to have their say on the plans by July 31 by going to McCarthy and Stone’s website or contacting them at feedback@mccarthystoneconsultation.co.uk and 800 298 7040.
The firm said: “We will review the feedback received, and take this into consideration before we submit a planning application to Wirral Council.”
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