THE developers behind Liverpool’s largest regeneration scheme said it would create up to 3,000 new jobs.

The £200m Central Village development aims to transform the area around Liverpool Central station, including the complete refurbishment of the iconic Grade II listed Lewis’s building.

The new retail and leisure scheme comprises six acres of land behind Central station, Renshaw Street and Bold Street.

North-west based developer Merepark has already started work on the project, which is expected to contribute £100m to the city’s economy when it is completed in 2013.

It will extend the city’s retail and leisure core with three new hotels, offices, retail outlets, restaurants, bars, cafes, a new public car park, residential buildings, six cinema screens and landscaped public space, including a boardwalk and water feature.

Cllr Joe Anderson, leader of Liverpool city council, said: “I’m really excited about this news which heralds a brighter future for this area of the city centre.

“The jobs which will be created through the comprehensive redevelopment at Central Village are a significant boost for Liverpool at a time when it is crucial that we offer a range of employment opportunities for local people.”