The wider regeneration of the Anfield area will continue this year with a £4 million scheme to enhance the area immediately outside the Kop set to be approved.
The Walton Breck Road Highway improvement scheme is aimed at creating a greener and safer experience, benefiting residents in the area and supporters on a matchday.
The major changes will see wider footpaths and the introduction of free-standing concrete planters that are designed to also allow for a temporary rest area for visitors near the stadium.
There are also plans to create a mini-roundabout at the junction of Walton Breck Road, Oakfield Road and Wylva Street, not far from the popular Homebaked.
The planned improvements “are designed to create a healthier, greener, and more inclusive high street,” which will also see footpaths and street lights upgraded.
After passing the planning and consultation stage, work will begin in May and run until at least Christmas.
Further changes include on-street parking, a bigger taxi rank and controlled pedestrian crossings. In addition, there will be a lowered speed limit as well as resurfaced carriageways and footpaths, plus upgraded pedestrian crossings and bus stops.
Residents were consulted in the planning process, as were Liverpool FC, Merseytravel and the emergency services.
Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy, said: “The Anfield Regeneration Programme is an ambitious long-term investment that will deliver real benefits for people living and working in the area.
“Alongside the improvements to Walton Breck Road, we’re developing a range of projects to make better use of local space, attract new businesses and increase the availability of affordable homes.”
Anfield Square – still no progress
The road improvements are part of a wider scheme to regenerate areas around the stadium, but progress has been slow, with land sitting vacant on both sides of Walton Breck Road since the Main Stand was rebuilt.
The idea for an ‘Anfield square’, in the space pictured above, didn’t materialise and the brownfield site still sits vacant.
On the other side of the street, there is a 0.75-acre plot of land between Venmore Street and Walton Breck Road which is currently behind large hoardings.
Back in spring 2023, commercial property developers Priority Space acquired planning permission for a new development opposite the club shop.
The plan was to build a row of retail units created alongside a 33-space car park. However, there are no visual signs of progress.
Built on a brownfield site, the properties were to be finished with red brickwork designed to stay in keeping with the stadium and club shop, opposite.