Community opposes IM Marsh campus sale in Liverpool

Plans to sell a former sports center in Liverpool are facing strong opposition from the local community. Activists warn that selling the IM Marsh campus could create "complete and utter chaos" in the area. The IM Marsh campus, located on Barkhill Road, used to be part of Liverpool John Moores University's educational facilities. It was closed in 2021 as the university moved its activities to the city center. The site includes a sports hall, playing fields, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. Initially, the university had a plan to sell the site and build around 200 homes, along with parks and cycle paths. However, in July 2022, the university decided to keep the campus. Now, it has changed its mind again, but future plans for the site are not yet clear. David Thomas, chair of the Mossley Hill Residents' Association, is leading the charge against the sale. He believes turning the site into housing could worsen traffic and strain local services. Thomas has gathered 1,547 signatures for a petition aiming to preserve IM Marsh as a sports facility. Residents express strong feelings about the site. Many have fond memories of participating in sports there, and they are concerned about losing a significant community asset. Thomas argues that adding more homes will only add to the existing congestion in the area. A university spokesperson confirmed that the site will be sold and that they will continue to communicate with local residents and relevant authorities during the process. The future of IM Marsh is still uncertain as the community pushes for it to remain dedicated to sports.