A SUMMIT aimed at attracting investment into new shops and restaurants for four Liverpool neighbourhoods is taking place this Thursday.
It centres on an area known as Liverpool 1578 – the postcodes for the Lodge Lane, Lawrence Road, Smithdown Road and Earle Road neighbourhoods – which is already experiencing an uplift in business activity after years of mostly decline.
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson has organised the summit with several organisations including the Muslim Enterprise Development Service (MEDS).
Mr Anderson said: “This is an area where there have been some recent encouraging developments, especially in the retail sector in Lodge Lane and Smithdown Road and occupancy rates for shops have been going up against the national trend, but it is an area whose full potential still has to be realised.
“There are significant housing developments taking place and a real opportunity for us to bring new investment and jobs into this area, driving up income and giving the local communities a brighter future.
“I want to bring together local business people, investors, the city council and other agencies to look at what can be achieved and how we can remove any barriers which stop us forging ahead.
“I believe that, as Mayor. I have the clout to deliver what entrepreneurs say is required to bring about the economic growth and jobs which are badly needed, to help existing businesses grow and encourage start-ups.”
The half day event will take place at the Powerhouse on Upper Parliament Street and will include presentations, a walkabout of the area, and direct access to key local organisations and individuals.
It will show the types of site available in the area, from premises such as former pubs to small shop units.
The multi-agency group set up to drive economic opportunities, including the council, businesses, voluntary organisations and other stakeholders, has already subsidised training to acquire world host destination status, which acknowledge areas for their excellent standards of customer service.
The group will also invest in cleaning and greening projects; work with partners including the Tiber Group, who with backing from national shop guru Mary Portas are building a £100,000 market square in Lodge Lane; and with the ‘Granby Toxteth Development Trust’ which is administering £1,000,000 for local Food and Fuel projects over the next five years.
Cllr Steve Munby, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “The area has seen some ups and downs over the last 40 years – mainly downs.
“But in the last couple of years there’s been a striking change for the better. New shops and restaurants are opening up and there’s a real buzz about the area.”
To register to attend the summit contact louise.browne@liverpool.gov.uk
