Bank confident in face of credit crunch

Apr 16 2008 by Aaron Boland, Liverpool Daily Post

ANGLO Irish Bank insists it is still looking to fund major property deals in Liverpool, despite the credit crunch.

Martin Murphy, senior manager at the bank’s city centre operation, said, it was “well funded” and was still looking to back solid property deals.

In recent years, Anglo Irish has funded some of the city’s biggest development projects, including Rumford’s 20 Chapel Street and Beetham’s West Tower.

It also provided tens of millions of pounds to the UK Land & Property and Pochin joint venture to acquire and refurbish the Exchange Flags complex, in the city centre.

Mr Murphy said: “The climate has changed in recent times and banks are adopting a more cautious approach. But we are well funded and in a very strong position and so we are still looking to do business with credible players in the property market.”

Anglo Irish is also sponsoring the NSPCC Sporting Lunch, taking place in Liverpool next month.

The event is being held to support the charity and the new “centre of excellence” it has built in Great Homer Street in Liverpool.

The Hargreaves Centre was built following a successful campaign, the Safe Place Appeal, which was run in conjunction with the Liverpool Daily Post.

Guest speaker at the event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, on May 9, is athlete Roger Black, who won 15 major championship medals for Great Britain at 400 metres and 4x400 relay.

Mr Murphy said that Anglo Irish was proud to be involved in the event.

“The NSPCC is one of the charities we support at a national level and we were involved in the Safe Place appeal in Liverpool,” he said.

“So when we were given the opportunity to sponsor the lunch we said yes straight away. We see our involvement as an opportunity to give something back.

“I think the Hargreaves Centre is a fantastic facility to have in Liverpool. It brings together the NSPCC’s services under one roof.

“These events are always well attended, and I’m sure the Liverpool business community will give its full support to this event.”

TABLES of 10 for the Sporting Lunch cost £950. VIP tables are also available and cost £1,500 and include a Champagne reception, branding opportunities at the event, and a premier table position. VIP guests will also be invited to submit a question to Roger Black.

For tickets, email: helenekwebb@gmail.com

tonymcdonough