Plans to transform Anfield have begun with the first phase of demolition works in the area.
Scores of derelict buildings on Walton Breck Road will be either demolished or rebuilt as part of an ambitious blueprint for a new high street in the area.
The main road will be narrowed to create wider pavements, making it more pedestrian-friendly while a series of outdoor spaces and new retail and food outlets are to be created.
A new hotel is also set to be incorporated into the plan, as will Liverpool FC’s plans for a new flagship club store adjacent to their Anfield stadium.
The start of demolitions follows the completion of club’s Main Stand expansion and the £3.2 million restoration of neighbouring Stanley Park.
Carried out in phases over the next three years, the first stage of work comprises of demolitions, planned acquisitions of commercial and mainly vacant residential property and business relocations.
The current demolition of two blocks at Venice Street and Vienna Street intersections with Walton Breck Road will be finished by March 2017.
Liverpool City Council is in discussions with existing businesses about future opportunities and is working with businesses and other organisations to ensure there is minimum disruption.
It is hoped that eventually the changes will attract new business and investment to a unique location next to one of the world’s most famous football clubs.
Work on Liverpool FC’s flagship store on the high street has already begun and is expected to complete July 2017, creating 60 permanent and casual roles.
Cllr Ann O’Byrne, deputy mayor of Liverpool, said: “We are not there yet but this is a massive step forward for the Anfield regeneration project and an important day for the community.
“We’ll be creating a new modern high street fit for the 21st century, with roads being narrowed and green corridors from the stunningly beautiful Stanley Park, right the way through to Robson Street.
“At the heart of the project has been community involvement, making sure that everyone is fully aware of all the plans and decisions that are being made and having influence over everything we do.
“It’s great to see from the public consultation, that residents in Anfield are overwhelmingly in support of the work that we’re doing here today and the plans for the future.”