Liverpool City Council’s planning committee has approved controversial proposals for a new bus hub on Old Haymarket.

Local residents and business owners fear the facility, which could serve as many as 1,700 buses daily, will be hugely detrimental to the area.

At a town hall meeting yesterday (26 February), four councillors voted in favour of the plans with one objecting and two abstaining.

The permanent layover facility is part of a multi-million pound council scheme to make the city centre easier to navigate for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

“The Old Haymarket has been confirmed as the only suitable location after assessments. Location and size vital to the to the development of the bus hub and bus companies” – Andy Barr #PlanningCommittee pic.twitter.com/zfL3lLybef

— Liverpool City Council (@lpoolcouncil) February 26, 2019

The local authority claims the new hub, together with re-routed bus services, will take away “700,000 dead miles and 2,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide”.

Despite this more than 130 objections were originally made against the proposals – with fears raised ranging from increased noise and air pollution, loss of business and vibration issues.

Residents and businesses submit their arguments and concerns against the bus hub. Objections include the impact on public health, staff parking, public safety, impact on loading bays and the impact on supply. #PlanningComittee pic.twitter.com/YgmNXy6iYz

— Liverpool City Council (@lpoolcouncil) February 26, 2019

A study carried out into the noise impact of the bus hub recommended the council pays for apartments which face onto the facility to have upgraded glazing installed and “appropriate alternative ventilation strategies” to negate the need for open windows.

However these measures only apply to residential properties and not any businesses which may be affected.

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