Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson has officially reopened Marwood Towers in Everton.
Liverpool Mutual Homes’ £8.5 million redevelopment project has transformed a landmark building situated on the major northern route in and out of the city centre into high-quality modern apartments, including specialist accommodation for over 55s.
Marwood Towers originally opened in 1965 as ‘general needs’ flats, but over time became rundown and outdated. LMH’s ambitious redevelopment plan called for the complete refurbishment of the original 57 flats and the addition of 24 new-build apartments, providing specialist supported accommodation. The scheme also benefits from modern energy-saving external wall cladding, which visually enhances the 15-storey tower, an attractive courtyard garden and communal lounge.
The Mayor was joined at the opening ceremony by local Councillors Jane Corbett and Frank Prendergast, together with Deputy Mayor Ann O’Byrne and key project partners including contractor Wilmott Partnership Homes, John McCall Architects, Imagine and Merseyside Fire & Rescue, and Marwood residents. After the official opening, guests toured the scheme and attended a celebration in the communal lounge.
Mayor Joe Anderson said: “This is a fantastic scheme which has transformed an outdated tower block and has delivered top quality affordable rental accommodation for local people and those needing support to live independently. I was convinced there was a bright future for the tower and with a bit of love, and vision, LMH have delivered a fantastic scheme.
“It is an essential part of the innovative Liverpool Housing Partnership which is now delivering a range of quality properties right across the city for people, whatever their budget. It is essential that we build the right homes in the right area to attract and retain residents, and create sustainable communities with a mix of properties and tenures.
“Marwood Towers complements the ongoing regeneration of the Everton area such as the new district centre.”
Steve Coffey, Chief Executive at LMH, said: “Marwood Towers is a great example of how LMH is delivering significant regeneration projects across Merseyside to help address the city’s shortage of high-quality affordable homes.
“Great care was taken to develop a fantastic scheme at Marwood, combining a great quality of life for residents, a strong sense of community and some of the best views in the city. We are delighted to welcome customers to these new homes and celebrate our own milestone achievement, as LMH moves to become a major developer of new homes across Merseyside.”
Stuart Belfield, Operations Director at Willmott Partnership Homes said, “We are proud and delighted to have worked in partnership with Liverpool Mutual Homes and Liverpool City Council on this flagship housing project, the first to be delivered under the Liverpool Housing Partnership. Our team on Marwood Towers has ensured that the building has been sensitively restored and given a 21st century makeover.”
