Sixty unloved flats on Vescock Street, North Liverpool, are set to be demolished as part of Torus’ major regeneration plans for the Kirkdale area of Liverpool.

Built in the mid-1970s, the three-storey blocks have declined in popularity in recent years. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and other social issues have increased despite Torus, Merseyside Police and other local stakeholders’ best efforts, leading to the decision in June 2019 to halt new lettings.

Growth and regeneration group Torus, the North West’s largest provider of affordable homes, carried out an in-depth review into the site’s future earlier this year. This process confirmed that retaining the blocks would not deliver on the group’s commitment to provide high-quality homes in strong, sustainable communities.

Group Assets Director, Margaret Goddard explains:

“As a long-term investor in homes and neighbourhoods, we recognise that retaining existing properties is not always the right option. In such cases, we will work closely with local residents to ensure that regeneration planning meets the needs of customers, now and in the future.”

The final decision to demolish the flats was made following extensive consultation with residents, local businesses and the wider community, which overwhelmingly backed the move."

Margaret continues:

“Over the coming months we will partner with the remaining residents on Vescock Street to make arrangements for suitable housing options, with demolition of the blocks set to commence in 2023.”

Meanwhile, Torus’ new-build arm Torus Developments is investigating potential to regenerate the site, as the centre point of an ambitious Area Action Plan for Kirkdale.

Whilst the plan is at an early stage, the focus will be on designing modern housing solutions that meet changing local needs and support the regeneration, sustainability and resilience of Kirkdale communities.