Top 10 investable projects: Central Station Gateway, Liverpool

Project overview

The Liverpool Central Station Gateway is a visionary infrastructure project that aims to create a world-class transport hub that transforms connectivity, boosts regeneration, and unlocks potential economic growth in Liverpool and the North of England.

The new station will offer a seamless interchange with Lime Street Station, akin to King’s Cross and St Pancras, integrating metro-style Merseyrail services with intercity rail.

The development will enhance connectivity to key areas like the Knowledge Quarter, Queen Square and Liverpool Waterfront, while enabling a new green public realm and high-quality living, office and leisure spaces.

The opportunity 

Opportunities exist for investors to partner in delivering transport infrastructure and adjacent real estate developments, including housing, retail, office, and leisure projects.

The financials

With a gross development value of £5 billion, the project seeks £2.5 billion in transport funding from the UK government, with opportunities to leverage private-sector financing for the station and the wider regeneration of the Central Station Gateway area (approximately 35 ha).

Project sponsor 

The promoter is Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the planning authority is Liverpool City Council.

Significance

Liverpool Central Station Gateway will drive economic growth, boosting LCR’s GVA from £35 billion in 2021 to £45 billion by 2035, while increasing knowledge-intensive businesses. Enhancing Liverpool-Manchester rail connectivity could enable over 200,000 daily rail journeys, supporting a 70% rise in rail usage needed to meet LCRCA’s net-zero carbon target.

Liverpool Central, the North’s third-busiest station, plays a critical role, handling 45% of Merseyrail journeys and more than 11 million passengers annually.

The pitch 

The project will unlock Liverpool City Region’s potential with improved access to jobs, housing, leisure, and business opportunities, while advancing net-zero carbon goals.

As a strategic gateway, it will enhance regional and national rail connectivity, drive footfall to key economic districts, and create a thriving urban destination, making it a prime investment opportunity in one of the UK’s most dynamic growth corridors.