THE University of Liverpool yesterday said it was committed to see through the recommendations of a milestone report aimed at improving the region’s health.

The Health is Wealth Commission, set up by the university, had unveiled 12 recommendations to end Liverpool’s reign at the top of the ill-health league tables and tackle the growth of a “super underclass”.

The Commission’s ideas included encouraging private companies to help run parks to get more people outdoors.

Giving every man, woman and child “health MoTs” targeted at reducing the impacts of alcohol, smoking, poor diet and lack of physical activity, were also proposed.

And it has also suggested the signing of a concordat by public agencies which would commit them to buy a “good proportion” of goods and services from local sources to help create jobs.

Sue Woodward OBE, who chaired the Commission, yesterday said the report was the result of a year and a half of dedicated work.

“Liverpool can be at the forefront of finding solutions to some of the world’s urban problems.”

Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Liverpool, Jon Saunders, said the institution had significant interests in public health and the regional economy.

He said: “We share the concerns of all stakeholders that the extreme poor health and social and economic inequality that exists in Liverpool city region is unacceptable, and a serious threat to the renaissance we are seeing.

“The University of Liverpool is now accepting back the results of the Commission's work, and will take responsibility for taking forward the work of engaging with local, regional and national stakeholders who have the ability to respond to the recommendations.

“We have an ongoing determination to see this aspect of our region's social and economic performance improve continually, and the Commission has our assurance that we will take this on with the same level of commitment and innovation as it has shown over the last 18 months.”