In short: Wirral Council is due to decide on 18 November 2026 whether to sign a contract for enabling works at Borough Yard, the 32-hectare scheme (formerly Hind Street Urban Village) between Birkenhead Central and Green Lane stations, planned to deliver around 1,600 homes. No homes are on sale yet. But if you are thinking about a new-build on the Wirral, the legal process differs from buying an existing home: you usually exchange before the property is finished, and the warranty, tenure and long-stop date all need checking first.
What has been announced about Borough Yard?
According to Wirral Today (8 September 2026), the scheme has outline planning permission, granted in early 2025, and is being brought forward by Ion Property Group, now owned by VINCI. The plans include demolishing two flyovers and the first phase of the £15 million Dock Branch Park, a linear park along a disused railway corridor linking the docks with Green Lane station. On 18 November, Wirral Council’s Policy and Resources Committee will consider a report seeking approval to enter a contract for enabling works. Ion’s Steve Parry told the paper the development is intended for a mix of age groups, including elderly care accommodation.
Enabling works are the preparatory works, such as site clearance and infrastructure, that happen before homes are built. No date for the first homes to go on sale has been announced.
How is buying a new-build different from buying an existing home?
In England and Wales most new-build homes are sold “off-plan”, so you agree to buy before construction is complete. The main differences are:
- Exchange early, complete later. You usually exchange while the home is still being built and complete when the developer serves notice that it is ready. That gap can be many months.
- Reservation deadlines. Developers commonly take a reservation fee and set a deadline (often around 28 days) to exchange. Instruct a solicitor before you reserve so the legal pack can be reviewed in time.
- Mortgage offer expiry. Offers have expiry dates. If the build overruns, you may need to re-apply before completion.
- Long-stop date. A properly drafted contract lets you withdraw and recover your deposit if the home is not finished by a set date. Your solicitor should make sure one is included and realistic.
- Warranty. Most lenders require a recognised new-home structural warranty (typically 10 years) and building control sign-off before releasing funds.
- Tenure and estate charges. Under the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022, ground rent on most new residential leases granted since 30 June 2022 is limited to a peppercorn. Many new estates are freehold but carry an annual estate management charge; ask what it covers and how it can rise.
For the full purchase process, see our Buyer’s Guide to Conveyancing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a home at Borough Yard now?
Not yet. The 8 September report concerns enabling works only, with the council decision due on 18 November 2026.
Do I need a solicitor to buy a new-build?
Yes. Lenders normally require a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to act on the purchase, and the contract, warranty and title need legal review before exchange. You are free to choose your own firm rather than one the developer recommends.
Is my deposit protected if the developer does not finish?
It depends on the contract terms and whether the deposit is held as stakeholder or released to the developer. Your solicitor should check this before exchange.
Gregory Abrams Davidson’s residential conveyancing team acts for buyers across Wirral, Liverpool and North West London, including new-build and off-plan purchases. If you are considering a new-build, you can contact us here.
Important: This article is general information, not legal advice. It reflects the law and practice in England and Wales at the date shown. Every transaction is different, and the process, timescales, costs and requirements can vary depending on your circumstances and the property involved. For advice on your own situation, please contact Gregory Abrams Davidson.
Last reviewed: September 2026
