BUILDING at Wirral Waters’ first landmark project can now FINALLY start after planning permission was granted by the council.

The land at Dock Road in Seacombe will soon be taken up by 500 apartments after the council pushed through reserved matters by for the £90m scheme by applicant Peel.

It signals the first residential development on the former East Float dock, and Peel has called it a “significant step forward” in the creation of a new neighbourhood along Northbank.

It was approved by Wirral council’s planning committee on Thursday.

At the meeting, Cllr Tony Jones said the development was “long overdue”.

He added: “I think it’s start of something really big for our dock area and Wirral.

“I am very, very mindful of the fact that Salford Quays started in a similar way.”

Cllr David Elderton added: “I’m delighted to see it turning into something positive.

“I’m hoping it will act as a catalyst for more brownfield developments.”

The planning committee’s decision came after the cabinet recently rubber-stamped the proposals.

The planning report considered by councillors on Thursday also said the buildings will vary in height between six and 13 storeys.

The scheme will also allow uses including a creche, gym and residents’ lounge, and will include “pocket parks” and courtyards, as well as public squares and landscaping features between the buildings.

20% of the homes – 100 of them – will be affordable and spread across different blocks.

It’s hoped Wirral Waters One will be the frontrunner for a number of other residential-led schemes along Northbank, including the development of 347 modular homes by Peel and Urban Splash.

Alongside the residential schemes, other projects within Wirral Waters are on the drawing board including a proposed £20m Maritime Knowledge Hub, a proposed £3.5m amenity and arts hub, known as Egerton Village, and a new £6m offices on Tower Road, all in close proximity to the residential developments emerging along Northbank.