Masterplan proposals

Artistic impression of the Academy redevelopment (click to enlarge)

The masterplan proposals for the new Academy site include:

Extending and refurbishing the Academy building, with internal reconfigurations and a small amount of demolition to allow for the connection between the existing building and the extension.

A covered indoor pitch, which will replace the existing outdoor show-pitch. The eaves height of the indoor pitch building will be approximately 10 meters from the level of Simonswood Lane, with a domed roof that will be approximately 18 metres at its highest point, constructed of translucent material. The building will also be set back from the boundary with Simonswood Lane.

An outdoor grass show-pitch, which will replace the existing all-weather artificial pitch.

A permanent 499 (maximum) seat spectator stand set against the outdoor show-pitch. This will replace the current, temporary stand, with associated accommodation, such as changing rooms, official rooms and spectator facilities.

Landscaping, pitch access and replacement trees.

Re-organisation of the car park to provide 40 additional spaces for visitors and coach parking on the eastern side of the site. The parking for the Academy will continue to be accessed from Arbour Lane.

The design and material of the extension and proposed indoor pitch will match the material palette of the existing AXA Training Centre and the Academy Family Building to create a cohesive collection of buildings. Each building within the site will have its own identity and unique features whilst still matching the overarching design language.

Frequently asked questions

  • The LFC Academy site is in Kirkby, located east of Simonswood Lane and south of Moss Lane. It sits within LFC’s AXA Training Centre which is also the home to LFC’s first team training facilities.

  • The expansion and refurbishment of the Academy will be the first major works to the building since it was completed in 1998. Following improvements to other aspects of the club’s infrastructure, the Academy’s redevelopment will provide the younger players with access to top class facilities as they progress through the sport. Having never had access to a full-sized indoor pitch, the proposed indoor pitch will allow the players to benefit from training on a full-sized pitch all year round, and not be interrupted by inclement weather. The redevelopment aims to bring LFC’s Academy facilities in line with top flight clubs across Europe.

  • No, the existing building will be extended and refurbished. The existing building will be retained, with internal reconfigurations and a small amount of demolition to allow for the connection between existing and extension. The external design of the existing building will be maintained and carried through to the extension.

  • LFC already have an indoor training pitch and are looking to improve this facility and increase the pitch size to ensure that our young players have the best facilities available to support their development and this indoor pitch can be used all year round. It is important for player development that they can consistently have training sessions that are not interrupted by inclement weather.

  • The site will be accessed on the eastern side of the site from Arbour Lane. Simonswood Lane will only be used for emergency access.

  • The masterplan for the new Academy site has been sensitively designed in the local context and with the community in mind.

    This includes the following design measures:

    • The eaves height of the indoor pitch building will be approximately 10 meters from the level of Simonswood Lane, with a domed roof that will be approximately 18 metres at its highest point, constructed of translucent material. The building will also be set back from the boundary with Simonswood Lane.

    • The existing floodlights will be upgraded during the associated works for the replacement outdoor show-pitch and be designed to include LED lighting with defined cut-off angles, aiming the light directly at the pitch.

    • The configuration of the masterplan relocates the outdoor showpitch further away from residential properties on the boundary of Simonswood Lane.

    • All traffic, construction and operational, will arrive at the site via Arbour Lane. Access off Simonswood Lane will be limited to emergency vehicles only.

    A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will be agreed with Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council in accordance with standard practice ahead of any works commencing on site.