Liverpool Waters project to secure '17,000 local jobs'
- Published
Artist's impression of the proposed development
A deal has been reached with the developers behind the Liverpool Waters project to create 17,000 local jobs, Liverpool City Council has said.
A council spokesman said targets had been set to ensure the people of Liverpool benefit during construction.
The Peel Holdings plans will initially focus recruitment in the Kirkdale, County, Anfield and Everton wards.
The £5.5bn docklands development plan includes high-rise offices, shops, flats and a cruise liner terminal.
Liverpool City Council leader Joe Anderson has called it a "fantastic deal" for the city.
He said: "Liverpool Waters is set to transform north Liverpool and it will also transform the lives of thousands of local residents.
"This unique agreement means thousands of Liverpool people will get the opportunity to work on this massive construction project."
He added: "It will help tackle long-term unemployment and offer real jobs and training for young people."
'Shanghai Tower'
Liverpool City Council said the deal would aim to boost employment in the four target wards, while also providing jobs in other deprived areas and the region as a whole.
The Labour-run council confirmed discussions had taken place with Peel Holdings about delivering training and apprenticeships.
The plans, announced in 2010, also include the 55-storey Shanghai Tower, which will be the tallest UK building outside London.
The site includes much of the city's famous waterfront, including the Three Graces - the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building - the Pier Head, the Albert Dock and the Stanley Dock Conservation Area.
Councillors approved the project in March.
The application will now be referred to the secretary of state for communities and local government who will decide if it requires a public inquiry.
A Unesco report into the impact the project would have on the waterfront said it would leave the area "irreversibly damaged".
Inspectors visited the city last year to investigate how the Liverpool Waters development could affect the world heritage site.
Peel Holdings declined to comment on the job developments.