← Pumpfields & Limekilns← Pumpfields & Limekilns

Pumpfields & Limekilns were historically a central part of Liverpool’s industrial heartland. Left vacant following wartime damage, the area became a significant gap in the urban fabric, disconnecting the central business district, the waterfront, and neighbouring residential communities.

Commissioned by Liverpool City Council, we worked with Levitt Bernstein, Arup, and Montagu Evans to produce a Supplementary Planning Document and Activation Strategy for the future revitalised neighbourhood. The proposal sets out an ambitious plan to deliver more than 7,000 homes, support the creation of jobs, green spaces, and cultural activity, providing a clear framework that strengthens neighbourhood identity and ensures new development delivers meaningful benefits for communities across the North Docks, Liverpool North, and the wider city.

Through an extensive engagement process with local community stakeholders, we developed a collaborative strategy that empowers the local community to drive the neighbourhood’s transformation. By leveraging underutilised sites, identifying local demands, establishing custodians, and strategising incremental changes, this approach safeguards economic viability while actively involving the local community in the neighbourhood's ongoing growth.

Our consultation process also resulted in a new Place Identity, which celebrated the multifaceted character of the neighbourhood and city. Natural and industrial iconography come together to showcase forgotten history and set the tone for the future as a place thriving with life, business, and experience.

By pairing an overarching urban masterplan with a bottom-up activation strategy, the project establishes a connected, resilient district respectful of its unique history. The framework is built around three core pillars:

• Nature: restoring green infrastructure through Kingsway Park, a new linear park, and a network of reimagined neighbourhood spaces enriched with high quality greening.
• Industry: celebrating local heritage by supporting creative industries, small businesses and maker spaces.
• Connectivity: improving movement and accessibility through safer streets, better crossings, enhanced walking and cycling routes, and stronger links between the city centre, Liverpool North and the waterfront.