Ainsley Gommon was initially appointed to carry out a feasibility masterplanning exercise for a former oleochemical (Fatty Acid) complex on the Wirral. The 13.06ha site closed in 2009 as it was no longer viable to continue with its existing use. The industry was historically sited to benefit from the proximity of the Mersey and the Dibben estuary, and as a result part of the site is at risk from both fluvial and tidal flooding. The Wirral UDP designates the site for industrial/employment use; the site contains a listed building, some of the original factory buildings, as well as a number of more recent office buildings and factory accommodation which have become very run down in recent years. The site is also adjacent to a residential conservation area, and the site of a scheduled ancient monument. The masterplan proposals addresses some of the complex site constraints to propose potential zoning of the site. The design creates a balanced mixed use development that is predominantly light industrial/ offices but also supports the adjacent residential conservation area to create a fully sustainable development. It is proposed to retain, restore and open up access to the listed building. The proposals place a great importance on landscaping, incorporating a pocket park adjacent to the listed building and riverside walk, including the reinstatement of the river bank wetland environment. Ainsley Gommon place holistic sustainable design at the centre of all our projects, and ensuring the green credentials of the proposals are paramount.