Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, has cut the ribbon to officially mark the completion of Livv Housing Group’s phase two development at The Watchfactory in Prescot, Merseyside. The transformative project has delivered 191 affordable new homes, creating a thriving, intergenerational community.
The Watchfactory Phase Two features a range of properties, with 80 two-, three-, and four-bedroom houses, 8 one-and-two-bedroom bungalows, and 103 one-and-two-bedroom apartments spread across three blocks.
The mixed-tenure scheme includes homes for affordable rent, shared ownership and rent to buy, ensuring accessibility for everyone – from first-time buyers and families to those looking to downsize or live independently with access to support.
Among the development, the Clockwork Court apartment block is specifically designed for extra care, while Watchmaker Court and the bungalows offer Inspired Living Shared Ownership*.
The development wraps around the original Grade II-listed Watch Factory building, which Livv redeveloped into an extra care facility as part of phase one in 2018. Residents of phase two have access to existing communal amenities, such as the bistro and beauty salon, enhancing the sense of community.
Built on former derelict land and replacing outdated housing, the project was delivered by Vistry Partnerships, with £9.3m grant funding from Homes England.
Yvonne Westhead-Fyles, Director of Development at Livv Housing Group, commented:
“The Watchfactory Phase Two is our largest project to date, and we’re so proud to see it come to fruition. The new homes are stunning and by offering such variety, we’re creating a truly inclusive and intergenerational community, bringing together people at all stages of life – the true focus of this scheme.
“Prescot is undergoing an exciting transformation, and our new development plays a key role in that regeneration, helping to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in the area. With most of the homes now occupied, it’s rewarding to see a vibrant neighbourhood taking shape.
“At Livv, we don’t just build houses; we build communities, and The Watchfactory is a shining example of our commitment to creating places where people can thrive.”
Speaking about the importance of developments like The Watchfactory Phase Two, Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“Developments like this are absolutely crucial for our region’s future. Not only are they helping to regenerate areas like Prescot, they’re also providing much-needed, high-quality affordable housing for local people.
“By delivering a mix of homes for affordable rent, shared ownership, and rent to buy, this scheme is ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to find a place they can call home.
“It’s a fantastic example of how we can build communities that are inclusive, vibrant and sustainable, with a focus on improving the quality of life for everyone in the Liverpool City Region.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, said:
“This fantastic development further enhances the real variety of affordable housing options in the borough. In addition to homes that will enable residents to live independently for longer, phase two of the development also provides properties that will be ideal for first-time buyers and families. What’s been delivered will help support a thriving, diverse community.”
Gemma Hardy, Managing Director of Vistry Merseyside and Cheshire West, said:
“The Watchfactory is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when partners and local stakeholders work together – we’ve delivered a range of mixed-tenure, affordable homes, employed a range of local subcontractors which boosts the local economy, whilst also breathing new life into the area.”
Shahi Islam, Director of Affordable Housing Grants at Homes England, concluded:
“As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting stakeholders of all sizes to achieve their ambitions.
“The Watchfactory – in its various phases – is a perfect example of how the Agency works collaboratively with partners like Livv, to achieve our mission of building much needed new homes in communities that people can be proud to call home.”
Apartments at Watchmaker Court are available for purchase through Inspired Living Shared Ownership. To learn more or to arrange a viewing of the show apartment, visit www.livvhomes.com or contact the team on 0151 270 7891.
*Inspired Living Shared Ownership = Older Person’s Shared Ownership Scheme.