LIVERPOOL faces a tremendous challenge if it is to maintain momentum following a spectacular 2008, says Mersey Partnership chief executive Lorraine Rogers.

The economic and tourism success of Capital of Culture has so far helped to protect the region from the worst ravages of recession but 2009 will provide different kinds of challenges, she said.

In an end-of-year report, she stated: “Over the past five years, Liverpool city region has been undergoing a remarkable renaissance and transformation which has helped us deliver a momentous year as European Capital of Culture.

“That coveted title may be passing on in a few days, but it is important we look beyond 2008 and remember our terrific strengths as well as our established cultural offerings which formed an important part of the winning bid.

“Attractions like the NML collection, the Tate, the Philharmonic, FACT and St George’s Hall, to name but a few, will continue to play a major role in our visitor economy.

“However, the global financial outlook today is very challenging and it is having an impact on tourism and the financial services in the UK, and on the overall economy.

“We are entering a recession and 2009 and 2010 will be difficult years.

“But 2008 – and the investment the successful bid to be Capital of Culture has generated – gives us a terrific platform on which to build.”

Visitors poured into the region since the spectacular launch weekend back in January, resulting in a sharp rise in hotel bookings.

Ms Rogers added: “We have presented a new Liverpool to the world, a Liverpool that delivers on a grand and successful scale. Those who have contributed to all this can be proud of what they have achieved together.

“We have witnessed investment and regeneration on a scale rarely seen in the UK – £1bn at Liverpool One alone – and our economy has experienced growth levels above national averages as well as a decade of business growth fuelled by our leisure and construction sectors.

“We at TMP, like many others, have been working hard on planning activity that will ensure the whole of the region continues to attract further inward investment and welcome more and more visitors way beyond this year in the spotlight.”

barry.turnbull