NO-ONE would dispute the fact that Liverpool’s citizens could, on the whole, be healthier. Years of poor showings in national league tables have only served to underline the sickly status of many residents.

But is it really feasible for Liverpool to become the UK’s capital of health, wealth and happiness, or is it just a cosy ambition without any real substance?

Looking over the extensive document compiled by the Health is Wealth Commission with just that aim in mind, it would seem this is a plan which we should have some confidence in.

It includes some surprisingly radical measures to make the city region’s residents more healthy. It also includes some neat ideas for funding that admirable, but rather expensive aim, and it has the backing of some very impressive organisations.

The Commission, a 15-strong body of experts and opinion makers established by the University of Liverpool as one of its contributions to 2008, believes its report is the answer to a very real, and very worrying, problem.

Among its proposals are co-ordinated strategies to tackle alcohol abuse, smoking and poor diet, to encourage the population to move around a bit more – maybe by enjoying Liverpool’s fine parks – and even a charter for city firms to ensure staff are as healthy as possible.

It is a bold and sweeping proposal that will take some implementing. Nevertheless, the health of Liverpool’s population is as vital to its future pros- perity as investment in infrastructure, regeneration and grand designs.

No-one should underestimate the toll obesity, smoking and alcohol-related illnesses, and inactivity takes on not only an individual but also on communities, businesses and, of course, the health service.

The Commission has put together a robust plan to improve Liverpool’s health; it is to be hoped those it aims to help are also able to employ a little will- power to ensure its success.