Car ban to create city’s ‘gay village’ a step nearer

Aug 16 2008 by Ben Schofield, Liverpool Daily Post

Car ban to create city’s ‘gay village’ a step nearer

THREE city centre streets could be pedestrianised to nurture a “gay village”, the Daily Post can reveal.

Liverpool City Council closed their consultation on plans for a 6pm to 6am closure of the streets this week, and say the results were mixed.

But those close to negotiations say a deal on different times could be hammered out.

The council canvassed opinion of local businesses and residents on closing Cumberland Street, Eberle Street and Stanley Street – home to many of the city’s gay-friendly bars and night clubs – between 6pm and 6am.

They received 10 responses and two “pro-formas” containing tick-box petitions with around 190 signatures in total.

The roads would be closed to traffic by rising bollards. Those needing night-time access would be issued with proximity cards to lower the bollards.

It is understood some day-time businesses and residents in the area objected to the 6pm start time, because they need access for deliveries. They are pushing for the bollards to stay down until 10pm.