LIVERPOOL’S future economic success is dependent on revitalising the north of the city, an inquiry has found.

The investigation was set up to explore how the city can tackle high unemployment in the area – a third of working age in north Liverpool people do not have a job.

It has recommended that Liverpool and Sefton councils and other agencies commission a new blueprint for the future development of the area which includes Anfield, Everton, Walton, and Kirkdale.

It warns that the recession has led to a deterioration in social and economic conditions in the area and that “urgent” action is needed.

Cllr Beatrice Fraenkel, who chaired the inquiry, said it could take up to 30 years for north Liverpool to fulfil its potential – but she remained optimistic about its future.

City leaders are being encouraged to recognise the distinct and varied communities that make up north Liverpool.

The Eldonians Village, carved out of the remnants of the old Tate and Lyle sugar factory, is being used as an example of how other communities can develop.

There are a number of large-scale regeneration projects planned in the coming years including a new district centre in Great Homer Street, a new Liverpool FC stadium, and dozens of skyscrapers in the docklands.

“North Liverpool is the key to the future of our city,” the report states. “The unrealised potential of the people and spaces of north Liverpool is just waiting to be activated.

“The future of Liverpool lies in north Liverpool and its population.” The inquiry report states decision makers must understand the deep roots of the north Liverpool communities when coming up with ideas for the area.

It identified that Leeds Street acts as a physical and psychological barrier isolating north Liverpool from the city centre.

All organisations responsible for public spending should develop programmes that specifically support north Liverpool residents and businesses, it urges.