A long-running saga over the future of a prominent Liverpool city centre site could finally be drawing to a close, as a popular UK steak chain formally unveils its plans to move in.
Historic Site Set for New Culinary Chapter
Flat Iron, the steak restaurant group founded in 2012 by Charlie Carroll, has officially submitted a planning application to open its first Liverpool branch. The target location is the ground floor of the historic former Royal Liver Assurance building on Castle Street, one of the city's original seven streets. The Grade II listed property dates back to the 1880s.
This move follows the announcement in October 2025 of the chain's intention to enter the Liverpool market. The brand, now led by Tom Byng, has expanded to 20 sites across London, Manchester, Leeds, and Cambridge over the past decade. Alongside Liverpool, Flat Iron is also targeting an opening in Newcastle and recently accelerated the launch of its Bristol restaurant.
Ending Years of Planning Uncertainty
The site has a complex recent history. In May 2024, Thai restaurant group Giggling Squid lodged plans to open there, receiving permission later that year with the promise of creating 30 jobs. However, those proposals never materialised, leaving the unit's future in doubt. It was most recently occupied by the shooting-themed bar Point Blank until it became vacant.
Flat Iron's application, submitted two months after its initial interest was confirmed, proposes both internal and external works to transform the space. The plans include:
- A full renovation of the property.
- Installation of a new staircase.
- New ducting, extraction, and filtration systems.
- External ducting with filtration equipment and condensing units at rear roof level.
- New openings and external box signage.
Designs revealed in December indicate the restaurant will feature a central bar, creating a focal point for diners and drinkers.
What Happens Next for Castle Street?
The planning application is now awaiting a date to be reviewed by Liverpool City Council planning officials. If approved, the restaurant is expected to open its doors in the summer of 2026.
This development signals a significant investment in Castle Street's hospitality scene and could finally provide a permanent resolution for the prominent unit, which has seen several proposed occupiers come and go in recent years. Flat Iron, which prides itself on quality steak at reasonable prices, will be hoping its plans mark the successful conclusion of this protracted city centre property story.
