A VIBRANT gay village is key to the future economic success of Liverpool’s city centre as an international tourist destination, it was claimed last night.

Liverpool council wants to harness the potential of the area around Stanley Street to cash in on the pink pound.

The area already has a thriving night-time economy of bars and pubs which cater for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Urban planning consultancy Feria Urbanism has now been commissioned to carry out a study to formulate a vision for a gay quarter which is on a par with the best in the UK and internationally.

The company has been asked to speak to businesses and residents in the area to see how public areas and safety can be improved.

It is hoped a fresh marketing strategy can also be formulated.

Cllr Nick Small, cabinet member for employment and skills, said: “The area around Stanley Street has developed over time to be the city’s gay quarter although there are many businesses there which cater for all communities.

“We want Liverpool to be known as an inclusive city.

“We have made strides in this in recent years and are being seen as a more gay friendly city than was the case a few years ago.

“The success of the Pride festival last year was evidence of that.

“We now need to look at how we can develop and promote the quarter.

“At a time of austerity that presents a real challenge but if we can have a quarter which is inclusive, dynamic and welcoming it can be a key economic driver for the city centre.”