The council plans to bring 177 run-down homes back into use as part of a selective refurbishment and rebuild programme in three areas of the city.

Much of the programme will take place in Toxteth repairing and refurbishing rows of Victorian housing that have been derelict for years.

The council expects the selected developer to finance the renewal scheme. Firms have until 6 July to prequalify with tenders due to be invited later that month.

Firms need to register with www.thechest.nwce.gov.uk