Liverpool’s iconic Littlewoods building is set to undergo a major transformation, enhancing its storied presence within the city.
- The Liverpool City Council’s planning committee has approved a significant project to revamp Littlewoods into a film and TV campus.
- Architect Shed KM and developer Capital & Centric are leading the efforts to breathe new life into the historic site.
- The refurbishment will include new film studios, office spaces, and public entertainment areas, expanding the city’s creative infrastructure.
- The ambitious redevelopment promises to bolster Liverpool’s reputation as a prominent filming destination and create new job opportunities.
The planning committee of Liverpool City Council has given the green light for an ambitious transformation of the former Littlewoods building into a film and television campus. This historic landmark, originally built in 1938, once served as the hub for the Littlewoods pools and retail empire until ceasing operations in 1994. Now council-owned, the site is poised for a comprehensive redevelopment, led by architect Shed KM and developer Capital & Centric.
The detailed plans reveal a vision to establish the ‘Hollywood of the north’ with state-of-the-art facilities. The project includes the creation of two new 20,000 square foot studios designed for large-scale productions, alongside spaces dedicated to offices, workshops, and studio support facilities. Additionally, an educational facility will be integrated, fostering talent within Liverpool’s burgeoning film industry.
One of the more unique aspects of the redevelopment is the transformation of the former canteen, housed in a barrel-vaulted hangar, into a multi-purpose venue. This space will feature five small cinema screens, an outdoor performance area, and a food hall to serve both on-site occupants and the general public during designated hours.
The construction of the new sound stages is projected to take approximately a year to complete, whereas repurposing the existing structures will require a more extended timeline due to their complexity. John Moffat, joint managing director at Capital & Centric, stated, “This is a huge moment for Littlewoods and for the city as we now have the green light to deliver the Hollywood of the north.” He emphasized the impact on Liverpool’s creative reputation and local employment prospects.
Councillor Nick Small, cabinet member for growth and economy, expressed enthusiasm, noting, “It’s fantastic news that the Littlewoods Project has been greenlit by the city’s planning committee.” The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority stands as a significant financial supporter, contributing up to £17 million to ensure the project’s success.
The transformation of the Littlewoods building is set to significantly enhance Liverpool’s creative industry and economic landscape.
