Capital of Culture: The world will decide on the city’s fortunes

Nov 2 2007 by Larry Neild, Liverpool Daily Post

WORLD reaction to Liverpool’s year- long reign as European Capital of Culture will play a crucial part in determining the city’s fortunes for years to come.

That was the tough message hammered home at a major summit meeting of Liverpool’s most influential business leaders and stakeholders yesterday.

With just 60 days to go before the big event year starts, the plea was made that every single citizen had a role to play in making sure 08 was etched into the memories of visitors as one of the greatest-ever success stories.

Mounted police officers are being taught Spanish, around 5,000 city taxi drivers will have been on welcome courses, and hundreds of key front-line staff will have learned how to offer a friendly welcome to visitors from all over the world.

The stunning 08 programme has been revealed, with the city expected to welcome an extra 1.7m visitors during 2008.

But, the big question remains, is Liverpool ready for its once-in-a-lifetime stunning year?

Rodney Holmes, project director for Grosvenor’s £1bn Paradise Street project, told a captive audience of around 250 at FACT about the job in hand.

Next May, the first phase of Liverpool One – including the John Lewis and Debenhams anchor stores – will open to the public.

“What remains to be seen is what the people of Liverpool will make of what is being provided by us and others in their city. Will they make it a city centre where they will want to spend their leisure time and spend their money in the new shops?

“Liverpool has an incredible opportunity to catch up with and then overtake other cities. An incredible opportunity lies ahead,” he told the audience.

Sara Wilde, managing director of Trinity Mirror’s Liverpool-based regional NW2 operation, told the audience how the 08 programme raises the pulse.

“The focus on 2008 will be a springboard for Liverpool,” she said, highlighting the £7.7bn being spent across the city.

“It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the city,” she said, describing Culture year as a fabulous milestone.

Ms Wilde also recognised that the developments and regeneration across the city, especially during Culture year, presented real challenges.

In an upbeat plea, she said: “Our job is not to shy away from them.”

larryneild