Old Cammell Laird yard safe

A future for ship working has been guaranteed at the famous former Cammell Laird yard England after the historic Birkenhead site had been acquired by property giant Peel Holdings. The previous owner, Reddington Finance, had planned a £2bn leisure, residential and retail redevelopment.

Peel Holdings announced that ship conversions and repairs would continue when it completes the buyout in February. Peel, which owns Mersey Docks and Harbour Company, Liverpool John Lennon airport and the Manchester Ship Canal, revealed it intended to concentrate on port-related activities when it assumed ownership early next month.

North West Ship Repairers, in which Peel holds a key stake, occupies the northern end of the site and the emphasis on maritime opportunities should guarantee the future of the yard and create more jobs for local skilled labour. Ian Pollitt of Peel Holdings said: “The Cammell Laird site is an ideal opportunity to continue the expansion of Peel’s port business here in Liverpool.” The site, which has access to a deep water channel, comprises dry docks, a wet basin and warehouses. Peel’s statement said it acquired the land for an “undisclosed sum” as part of expansion of the Port of Liverpool.