Traditionally, social infrastructure has been viewed primarily in terms of facilities, often individual buildings. In reality, the entire town functions as social infrastructure. To reflect this broader perspective, we could
establish a Community Improvement District (CID) to coordinate investment across the whole area. This approach would also create a structured way to channel Social Value contributions effectively.
Wirral Council aims to grow Birkenhead’s residential population through sensitive intensification of existing neighbourhoods and the redevelopment of former industrial sites like the Borough Yard gas works and the Wirral Waters docklands. There is scope for residential intensification within the grid too.
Central Birkenhead’s market can become a hub for social and community-focused activities, alongside trade. Its regeneration offers space for locally grown produce, potentially from a community owned urban farm.
Grow-Wellbeing – Bentinck Street Project
The Queensway Tunnel entrance remains a major barrier to creating a well-functioning town centre. The toll marshalling yards make this area a redundant backland, and with no sense of arrival when leaving the tolls. Reconfiguring this gateway would reclaim valuable land, improve access, and create a striking sense of arrival. Opportunities here are significant.
Creating a Town for all Ages
Feeling safe and being safe are not the same and improving both in Birkenhead is essential. When design and management fail, the sense of threat creates a downward spiral with fewer people venturing out, antisocial behaviour rising, and closed shutters reinforcing a sense of neglect.
As Birkenhead grows its population, it must become a town that supports people throughout life from prenatal care to old age. Everyone needs access to everyday essentials, an inclusive public realm, strong
social connections, and a sense of belonging.
To address this, Backin’ Birkenhead can survey perceptions of safety to establish a baseline for future improvements. Actual crime patterns also vary by gender: young men are most likely to experience street violence, while women and girls face higher risks of sexual assault. Violence Against Women and Girls, a priority for Merseyside Police, was highlighted during community sessions, particularly regarding nighttime safety. A dedicated community conversation on safety will help clarify concerns.
Loneliness is rising nationally, with peaks in youth and later life. Birkenhead should aim to reverse this trend. Thoughtful design of housing, streets, and public spaces, combined with social and economic initiatives, can reduce isolation and promote wellbeing.
Local initiatives such as Weapons Down Wirral and Street Angels Birkenhead play an important role in tackling street violence. Through Merseyside Police a record of crime and criminal activity can be maintained, providing time-sensitive information to inform Place Plan actions.
Weapons Down – Argyle Community Fitness
Public spaces must cater for young people: safe streets for children’s free play and welcoming places for teenagers to ‘hang out’ that feel like their own. Older residents benefit from local facilities within walking
distance and inviting ‘bumping spaces’ for informal social encounters.
Inter-generational activities can bridge divides and strengthen community cohesion. Local schools have a vital role in supporting these connections, with resources available through Inter-generational England.