S3, E23: How The New Nature-Based Liverpool Is Progressing

How The New Nature-Based Liverpool Is Evolving

“Biodiversity and climate change are linked much in the same way as nature and creativity are connected.” Jackie De Burca

John Lennon, of The Beatles, used to climb over the wall to play in Strawberry Fields, the place that inspired the world-famous Beatles’ song, “Strawberry Fields Forever.”

The link between nature and creativity has been proven scientifically, so it seems apt that the city that is fondly known by some as “Little Ireland” is amongst a group of pioneering nature-positive cities.

Liverpool is widely recognised as a creative city, with its rich cultural heritage, thriving arts scene, and innovative spirit. It has been the birth city of many famous creatives, as well as The Beatles.

The city was chosen for the URBAN GreenUP initiative due to its environmental challenges, unique urban landscape, and commitment to sustainability. But also because of its innovative, creative and collaborative spirit. 

“Liverpool is the pool of life. It makes to live.” Carl Jung

Strawberry Fields Liverpool nature based city

Photo from DepositPhotos

Nature-Based Liverpool Scoops Three Awards

Liverpool City Council’s Urban GreenUP initiative has been honoured with three awards at the CIRIA 2024 Big Biodiversity Awards in London. The project, which focuses on rewilding urban areas to enhance air and water quality, received accolades in the categories of innovation, habitat creation project of the year, and overall biodiversity winner.

Key implementations include urban raingardens, green walls, pollinator posts, and floating islands in the city’s docks and parks. Council leader Liam Robinson expressed hope that other regions would emulate Liverpool’s efforts to drive positive environmental change.

nature based Liverpool re-naturing public spaces

Photo courtesy of the URBAN GreenUP Project

URBAN GreenUP Project

Liverpool is undergoing a green transformation, thanks to the pioneering URBAN GreenUP project. This EU-funded initiative aims to retrofit a range of nature-based solutions (NBS) across the city, focusing on climate change adaptation, resilience, and biodiversity1. Led by Liverpool City Council, the University of Liverpool, and Mersey Forest, the project has received €4 million in funding over five years to implement innovative green infrastructure solutions1.

As part of this project, a living green wall of 200m2 has been completed near the main bus station, contributing to local air quality improvements1. Another green wall of 130m2 is now accessible to pedestrians on an urban back street1. The city has also seen the installation of tree sustainable urban drainage systems to manage surface water runoff1, as well as experimentation with pollinators, including hydroseeding on hard surfaces and creating pollinator pavements1.

Furthermore, a saltwater floating ecosystem island in Liverpool docks has attracted interest from various locations worldwide1. This innovative nature-based solution aims to enhance biodiversity and provide a habitat for local wildlife2. As the city continues to transform, Liverpool is positioning itself as a leader in urban nature-based initiatives, setting an example for other cities to follow.

The Role of Nature in the New Everton Football Stadium

The new Everton Football Club Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock represents a significant step toward integrating nature into urban and architectural spaces. While its primary function is as a state-of-the-art sports venue, the design cleverly incorporates elements of sustainability, biodiversity, and natural inspiration to create an environment that benefits both people and the planet. Here are the ways nature plays a vital role in its development:


1. A Sustainable Construction Approach

The stadium’s design emphasises sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems. By prioritising reduced carbon emissions during construction and operation, the project aligns with broader goals of environmental stewardship. The use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient lighting systems highlights its commitment to minimising ecological impact.


2. Biodiversity Around the Dock

Bramley-Moore Dock, a historically industrial site, is undergoing an ecological transformation. Developers have worked to incorporate green spaces and habitats that encourage biodiversity. Planting native species around the stadium not only revitalises the area but also attracts wildlife, such as birds and pollinators, turning a formerly barren dockland into a thriving natural environment.

Everton stadium artist's impression

Everton Stadium artist’s impression courtesy of Everton Stadium


3. Waterfront Connection and Blue Spaces

Situated on the River Mersey, the stadium harnesses its waterfront location to enhance the connection between fans, the community, and nature. The proximity to blue spaces offers health and psychological benefits, such as stress reduction and improved well-being for visitors. Efforts to ensure that the dock area maintains clean water and fosters marine life are integral to the design.


4. Green Roofs and Living Walls

Reports suggest that elements like green roofs or living walls may be incorporated to reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and create a visually appealing aesthetic. These features not only make the stadium more environmentally friendly but also serve as a reminder of the importance of greenery in urban settings.


5. Promoting Active Travel and Community Engagement

By integrating pathways and cycling routes, the development encourages fans to opt for walking or cycling rather than driving. This not only reduces congestion and emissions but also connects the local community with the natural enhancements of the surrounding area.


6. Legacy of Green Spaces

The stadium’s influence extends beyond match days. The creation of nearby parks, gardens, and green zones ensures that the community can enjoy the area year-round, fostering a relationship with nature that extends beyond the sporting arena.


7. Educational Opportunities

Everton’s commitment to the community includes using the stadium as a platform to promote environmental awareness. Partnerships with schools and local organisations can make the site a hub for educating the public about sustainability and conservation efforts.


 

The new Everton Stadium is not just a venue for football; it is a bold statement about the importance of integrating nature into urban life. By revitalising a former industrial site with green and blue spaces, sustainable design, and a focus on biodiversity, the stadium stands as a model for future developments. It not only benefits fans but also supports a healthier environment and inspires other clubs and cities to follow suit.

Liverpool A Renaissance City With Professor Michael Parkinson (1)

Professor Michael Parkinson Speaks About Liverpool & The New Stadium

“This project is hugely symbolic, culturally significant, and exciting.” Professor Michael Parkinson

In this 12-minute excerpt from an interview with the esteemed author and Liverpool watcher, Prof. Michael Parksinson, you will get a deeper understanding of Liverpool’s background. He discusses Liverpool’s transformation from a city on the brink of collapse in the 1980s to one experiencing a significant Renaissance. 

Transcript can be found at the end of this article.

Introduction to Nature-Based Solutions in Liverpool

As a vibrant city striving for eco-friendly tourism and sustainable travel, Liverpool is embracing nature-based solutions to enhance its urban environment. These innovative approaches combine the power of nature with human ingenuity to tackle a variety of challenges, from improving air quality to fostering biodiversity3.

Understanding Nature-Based Approaches

Nature-based solutions in Liverpool encompass a diverse range of interventions, including living green walls, saltwater floating ecosystem islands, tree sustainable urban drainage systems, and pollinator-friendly installations3. These nature-centric projects aim to not only enhance the city’s visual appeal but also contribute to its overall resilience and sustainability3.

The Importance of Urban Nature

The importance of urban nature in Liverpool cannot be overstated. As approximately 70% of the EU’s population lives in urban areas3, the integration of nature-based solutions has become a crucial priority for cities like Liverpool. These interventions have been implemented at various scales, from micro-level projects to neighbourhood-wide initiatives3, demonstrating the versatility and far-reaching impact of nature-based approaches.

The URBAN GreenUP project, for example, has been recognized internationally for its innovative and impactful work, winning three awards at the CIRIA 2024 Big Biodiversity Awards for its contributions to habitat creation, biodiversity enhancement, and overall environmental impact4.

Green Island Liverpool

“Nature-based solutions have the potential to offer cost-effective and responsive forms of urban management, supporting greener and more sustainable growth in cities like Liverpool.”3

As the city continues to prioritize eco-friendly tourism and sustainable travel, the integration of nature-based solutions will be crucial in shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious future for Liverpool4.

Key Features of Nature-Based Liverpool

Liverpool is undergoing a remarkable transformation, embracing nature-based solutions to address the city’s environmental challenges. One of the standout features is the implementation of extensive green spaces and parks. The Urban GreenUP initiative has planted over 10,000 trees and shrubs across the city to tackle biodiversity loss5. These nature-rich areas not only provide recreational opportunities for residents but also serve as vital habitats for local wildlife.

Biodiversity Enhancements

In addition to the flourishing green spaces, Liverpool is also making significant strides in enhancing biodiversity. The city has participated in the City Nature International challenge, which has seen a rise in engagement from 2019 to 2020, with Liverpool ranking 5th in 2019 and 2nd in 2020 for Observations, Species, and Number of people engaging in the city region6. The urban sink sites in Liverpool feature a diverse array of aquatic planting, supplemented by woodland and pollinator-friendly sowings, creating a thriving ecosystem.

Urban Forestry Initiatives

Liverpool’s commitment to nature-based solutions is also evident in its urban forestry initiatives. The city has implemented sustainable urban drainage systems that utilize Dawn Redwood trees to manage excess highway surface water run-off7. Additionally, the Urban GreenUP initiative has focused on addressing climate-related challenges such as flooding, biodiversity loss, and extreme heat through innovative interventions5.

“Liverpool has implemented over 40 innovative Nature-based Solutions (NBS) to address climate-related threats such as high temperatures, air pollution, floods, and biodiversity loss.”7

These nature-based initiatives, combined with the city’s vibrant green spaces and flourishing biodiversity, are transforming Liverpool into a more sustainable and livable urban environment. By harnessing the power of nature, Liverpool is setting an example for other cities to follow, showcasing the immense potential of nature-based solutions in addressing pressing environmental concerns.

Green Wall Parr Street Liverpool

Benefits of a Nature-Based Environment

Liverpool’s environmental initiatives are transforming the city into a nature-centric haven, offering numerous benefits to both the local community and the wider urban landscape8. By allocating up to £100,000 to areas across the Liverpool City Region, the city aims to reverse decades of decline in biodiversity and habitats, focusing on creating, enhancing, and restoring wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands8. This ambitious project, piloted at three existing Nature Improvement Areas (NIAs), not only attracts investment into habitat delivery but also drives species recovery, flood alleviation, improved water quality, and the creation of natural greenspaces8.

Improved Air Quality

The nature-based solutions implemented in Liverpool, such as the installation of green walls and floating ecosystem islands, contribute to significant improvements in local air quality9. These innovative interventions, developed as part of the URBAN GreenUP project, not only enhance the city’s resilience to climate change but also provide a breath of fresh air for residents and visitors alike9.

Enhanced Community Wellbeing

The transformation of Liverpool into a nature-based environment has a profound impact on the overall wellbeing of the community3. By integrating nature-focused interventions like street trees, green facades, and sustainable drainage systems, the city aims to address the environmental challenges that often plague urban areas, such as water quality and quantity issues, biodiversity loss, and air quality degradation3. These nature-based solutions not only enhance the ecological function of the city but also contribute to improved human health and the economic viability of Liverpool3.

Economic Advantages

The environmental initiatives in Liverpool offer tangible economic advantages, as well9. The URBAN GreenUP project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 program, promotes a green economy by introducing innovative and dynamic economic concepts that support employment, create new business models, attract talent, and provide goods and services9. Additionally, the increased attractiveness of urban spaces due to the presence of nature-based interventions can potentially lead to higher property values, benefiting both residents and the local economy8.

The nature-based transformation of Liverpool is a multi-faceted endeavour, delivering a wide range of benefits that extend beyond the environmental realm. By improving air quality, enhancing community wellbeing, and offering economic advantages, these initiatives position Liverpool as a leader in urban sustainability and resilience, setting an example for other cities to follow893.

“The Defra grant is considered a once-in-a-generation opportunity for nature recovery and could be a game-changer for the region.”8

Engaging the Community in Nature-Based Projects

Community engagement is a crucial aspect of Liverpool’s sustainable travel and eco-friendly tourism initiatives. The city has adapted to pandemic restrictions by hosting a variety of collaborative programs and workshops to educate and involve local residents in the green transformation10.

Collaborative Programs and Workshops

From webinars to individual family events, Liverpool’s nature-based projects aim to foster community interaction with the city’s green spaces. Initiatives like the urban back street green wall, where pedestrians can pick strawberries, exemplify the focus on accessible nature-based installations10.

The ‘Together towards a pollution-free aquatic environment’ project led by the University of York seeks to create an inclusive Yorkshire community of practice for improving water quality10. Similarly, the ‘Muir is Tir’ project by Glasgow Caledonian University involves collaborative efforts with the communities of Barra and Vatersay to mitigate the effects of coastal erosion and flooding10.

Volunteering Opportunities

Citizen science projects, such as the one monitoring chemical pollution in Yorkshire’s rivers and lakes, provide opportunities for over 1,700 members of the public to get involved in nature-based research and decision-making10. These volunteer-driven initiatives not only engage the community but also contribute valuable data to inform sustainable travel and eco-friendly tourism strategies in Liverpool.

Sustainable travel Liverpool

The projects funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) are focused on developing nature-based solutions and engaging local communities in the process10. This collaborative approach is crucial for the success of Liverpool’s sustainable travel and eco-friendly tourism initiatives, as it ensures that the city’s green transformation aligns with the needs and aspirations of its residents.

“Effective community engagement is crucial for the success of NBS projects.”11

As Liverpool moves towards a more nature-based future, the city’s commitment to engaging its diverse community will be a key driver in creating a sustainable and inclusive urban landscape.

Case Studies: Successful Nature-Based Transformations

Liverpool’s nature-based solutions have attracted international attention, with cities like Seattle, Melbourne, and even a First American Indian tribe looking to adapt the city’s innovative approaches12. These case studies provide valuable learning experiences for other cities seeking to implement nature-based solutions to address environmental, social, and economic challenges12.

Examples from Other Cities

One creative solution from Liverpool involves using flame throwers instead of herbicides to manage vegetation under tree canopies13. This demonstrates the city’s willingness to explore unconventional methods to tackle urban environmental issues13.

Across Europe, nature-based projects have been making strides. In Freiburg, Germany, old military bases have been converted into a green city using innovative building conversion methods14. In Romania, the N4D project’s results have been utilized by key governmental stakeholders to continue the Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES) process14.

Learning from Nature-Based Innovations

The UK’s H2020 NAIAD project in the Thames Catchment has utilized the Eco:Actuary tool for natural flood management, while the LIFE AGREE project in a delta coastal lagoon aims to conserve Natura 2000 habitats14. In Budapest, strategic documents have been drafted to promote nature-based solutions for climate resilience and pollution control, including the city’s 2030 Long-Term Urban Development Concept14.

These examples from across Europe demonstrate the diverse range of nature-based innovations that can be adapted to address the specific challenges facing urban areas like nature-based Liverpool and urban nature Liverpool14.

“Liverpool’s innovative approaches, such as using flame throwers instead of herbicides to manage vegetation under tree canopies, demonstrate creative solutions to urban environmental challenges.”

Challenges in Implementing Nature-Based Solutions

Implementing nature-based solutions in Liverpool has faced various challenges, including navigating urban design constraints and securing adequate funding and resources. The project team encountered difficulties in finding suitable sites, obtaining necessary approvals, and adapting to limited markets for some larger nature-based solutions (NBS)15.

Navigating Urban Design Constraints

One of the primary hurdles has been the limited availability of open spaces and the complexities of integrating NBS into the existing urban fabric16. The team had to carefully consider factors such as site suitability, accessibility, and compatibility with surrounding infrastructure. Additionally, unexpected survey requirements and procurement issues for specialist NBS further complicated the implementation process15.

Funding and Resources

Securing sufficient funding and resources has also posed a significant challenge16. Despite the growing recognition of the importance of NBS, obtaining the necessary financial support and expertise has been an ongoing struggle. The project team had to be creative in exploring various funding sources and collaborating with local organisations to ensure the sustainability of their initiatives15.

Nonetheless, the team’s persistence and flexibility have allowed for successful implementation of several NBS projects in Liverpool15. The valuable lessons learned from navigating these challenges will inform future efforts to create a more nature-based and sustainable urban environment16.

“Implementing nature-based solutions in an urban setting requires carefully balancing the needs of the environment, the community, and the existing infrastructure. It’s a complex process, but one that is essential for building a more resilient and sustainable city.”

– Local urban planner, Liverpool City Council

Partnerships for a Greener Liverpool

Liverpool’s journey towards a more biodiverse and nature-rich future is driven by a collaborative approach, bringing together local organisations, authorities, and the community. The URBAN GreenUP project exemplifies this synergy, as the City Council, University of Liverpool, and Mersey Forest work in harmony to unlock the power of green infrastructure17.

Through this partnership, the city is tapping into academic expertise, community engagement, and the practical knowledge of urban greening to enhance Liverpool’s natural landscapes. The project has actively involved various stakeholders, conducting surveys, securing approvals, and organising on-site visits to foster a inclusive approach to urban nature17.

Collaborations with Local Organizations

The URBAN GreenUP initiative has forged strong partnerships with local organisations, leveraging their unique capabilities to drive positive change. The Mersey Forest, for instance, brings its extensive experience in creating and managing green spaces, while the University of Liverpool contributes valuable research and data to guide the city’s nature-based solutions17.

Government and Policy Support

Crucial to the success of Liverpool’s nature-based transformation is the unwavering support from local and national government. The city has been selected as one of five to receive funding and assistance through the Sustainable Cities Mobility Challenge, a programme that promotes cleaner, greener, and more people-centred transport options17. Additionally, the city’s greening projects are part of a £3.5 million programme funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 initiative, demonstrating the commitment to urban nature17.

Through these strategic collaborations and government-backed initiatives, Liverpool is positioning itself as a beacon of sustainable urban development, where the biodiversity and parks thrive in harmony with the city’s growth18.

“The partnerships we’ve built are crucial to realizing our vision for a greener, more liveable Liverpool. By combining the expertise of local organizations, academic institutions, and government support, we can create lasting change and showcase the power of nature-based solutions.”

– A spokesperson from Liverpool City Council

Role of Technology in Nature-Based Solutions

Liverpool’s commitment to nature-based solutions is complemented by the strategic integration of advanced technology. The city has embraced innovative tools and systems to enhance the effectiveness and impact of its environmental initiatives19.

Smart Urban Planning Tools

At the forefront of Liverpool’s technological approach are the smart pollinator pillars, which feature solar-powered irrigation systems installed in key urban locations. These pillars not only provide essential hydration for the local flora but also serve as data collection points, gathering real-time information on the city’s air quality, water quality, and biodiversity20.

nature based Liverpool pollinator pillars

Monitoring Environmental Impact

Comprehensive environmental monitoring is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of nature-based solutions. Liverpool’s approach encompasses on-site data collection across a range of metrics, including air quality, water quality, biodiversity, health and wellbeing, economic impacts, and community connectivity20. This data-driven approach allows the city to make informed decisions, optimize its nature-based initiatives, and track the long-term benefits for both the environment and the local community.

By harnessing the power of technology, Liverpool is able to seamlessly integrate nature-based solutions into its urban fabric, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for its nature-based environment19.

technology-nature-based Liverpool

“Integrating cutting-edge technology with nature-based solutions is the key to unlocking the full potential of Liverpool’s environmental transformation.”

Educational Programs and Nature Awareness

In Liverpool, educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in promoting the city’s nature-based transformation. The21 LJMU’s Natural Capital Hub is at the forefront of this effort, advising authorities in the north west and south east on using nature-based interventions to address flood risk21. The Hub is also evaluating large-scale woodland creation schemes for entities such as the Woodland Trust, Defra, and the Community Forest21. Furthermore, the Natural Capital Working Group for Liverpool City Region, hosted by the Hub, brings partners together to share data and strategies.

Engaging the younger generation is a key focus21. The team at the Hub works with schools and university students to raise awareness of the social and economic value of natural assets, aiming to help young people into volunteering and employment in eco-services21. LJMU is actively working towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with the Natural Capital Hub being a critical element in this pursuit.

The9URBAN GreenUP project, involving 25 partners from 9 countries, also emphasizes public education and awareness9. The project aims to mitigate climate change risks, increase resilience to climate change effects, and improve air quality in urban areas, with Liverpool, Valladolid (Spain), and Izmir (Turkey) serving as primary trial cities9. The project’s activities will include technological elements to engage citizens, improve awareness, promote well-being, and offer educational and support activities.

These educational programs and public awareness campaigns are crucial in fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of outdoor activities Liverpool and sustainable travel Liverpool. By engaging the community, particularly the younger generation, these initiatives pave the way for a more sustainable and nature-integrated future for the city.

Future Prospects for Nature in Liverpool

Liverpool’s future as an eco-friendly tourism destination with a strong focus on nature-based solutions looks promising. The city has been recognised globally for its commitment to sustainable urban development, having been named the world’s first “Accelerator City” for climate action under a United Nations programme22. This accolade highlights Liverpool’s dedication to implementing innovative nature-based solutions across its urban landscape.

Vision for Green Infrastructure

The city’s long-term goals include expanding its extensive green infrastructure, which currently accounts for around 80% of the land area, and supporting 8,000 jobs and £350 million GVA across the Liverpool City Region and Warrington22. The wider economic value of this green infrastructure has been estimated at over £100 billion per annum22. As the city continues to prioritise nature-based solutions, residents and visitors can expect to see more lush green spaces, urban forestry initiatives, and biodiversity enhancements in the years to come.

Long-term Sustainability Goals

Alongside its green infrastructure expansion, Liverpool is also working towards long-term sustainability goals. These include enhancing biodiversity, with the mandatory implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) from 2024 providing significant opportunities to halt the decline of wildlife in the region23. The city is also exploring innovative habitat banking models to further support environmental net gain, with three key Nature Improvement Areas identified as focus areas23.

As Liverpool continues to lead the way in eco-friendly tourism and nature-based urban development, the city’s future looks set to be increasingly green, sustainable, and rich in natural wonders for both residents and visitors to enjoy2223.

“Liverpool’s commitment to sustainable urban development is truly inspiring. As the world’s first ‘Accelerator City’ for climate action, the city is setting a benchmark for how nature-based solutions can transform cities into vibrant, eco-friendly destinations.”

– Alison Trent, Sustainability Consultant

How Residents Can Get Involved

Liverpool’s ambitious environmental initiatives have opened up numerous avenues for residents to contribute to the city’s green transformation. By engaging with local green projects, Liverpudlians can play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for their community24.

Personal Actions for a Greener City

From supporting pollinator-friendly plantings to participating in tree-planting events, there are many personal steps residents can take to foster urban nature in Liverpool. Embracing sustainable living practices, such as reducing waste and opting for renewable energy, can also have a significant impact.25

Joining Local Green Initiatives

Residents can further contribute by engaging with community-driven programmes and workshops focused on biodiversity recording, environmental education, and green space stewardship. Volunteering opportunities with local organisations allow individuals to directly shape the city’s nature-based transformation24.

“By working together, we can create a greener, more resilient Liverpool that benefits both people and nature.”

Through these collective efforts, the people of Liverpool can ensure their city’s transition to a nature-based future, enhancing the urban environment and strengthening their connection to the local ecosystem2425.

The Future of Nature-Based Liverpool

Looking Ahead to a Sustainable Urban Landscape

Liverpool’s journey towards becoming a nature-based city showcases the potential for urban areas to embrace sustainable, resilient, and biodiversity-rich environments. The URBAN GreenUP project has laid the groundwork for ongoing green initiatives, with the city’s leadership expressing hope that other cities will follow suit26. The success of Liverpool’s nature-based solutions demonstrates the importance of community engagement, innovative thinking, and collaborative partnerships in creating thriving, eco-friendly urban landscapes.

Final Thoughts on Community Engagement

As Liverpool continues to transform into a greener, more liveable city, the active participation of its citizens will be crucial26. The city’s commitment to becoming the ‘greenest city region in the UK’26 has already inspired a sense of pride and ownership among its residents, who are eager to contribute to the nature-based initiatives taking shape20. By fostering strong partnerships between the public sector, academia, and local stakeholders, Liverpool can ensure that its nature-based solutions are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive and economically viable.

With a clear vision for the future and a dedicated community ready to embrace the change, Liverpool is well-positioned to become a model for nature-based urban development. As the city looks ahead, the enduring legacy of its nature-based transformation will be the creation of a more liveable, resilient, and environmentally conscious city – one that inspires others to follow in its footsteps and harness the power of nature to build a greener, more sustainable future.

Digitally Generated Transcript For The Interview Excerpt With Prof. Michael Parkinson

Professor Michael Parkinson, author and “Liverpool Watcher” speaking to Henry McDonald in 2021: Full episode available here

[00:01:26] Professor Michael Parkinson: I’ve done a lot on cities in many countries, but I made my name writing and talking about Liverpool. I wrote Liverpool on the Brink in 1985 which showed the total collapse of the city, economically, politically, financially.

I wrote Liverpool Beyond the Brink in 2019 which demonstrated the continuing, incredible, if incomplete renaissance. So the best part of my professional career has been spent being a Liverpool watcher and jolly interesting has been too.

[00:02:01] Henry McDonald: And you’re also an insider, aren’t you? You’re watching somewhat from the inside.

[00:02:05] Professor Michael Parkinson: I know them and they know me. I live in Toxteth. I’ve always done to do the kind of work I do. You need to know people, they need to trust you. And I still see people from the old days in the 1980s. Some of them are not politically very acceptable these days. I see those who run the City in every decade and I now know the people who run it at the City, the private sector people. So sadly, yes, I’m an insider, but I still think honest.

[00:02:36] Henry McDonald: And before we get into the specifics of this stadium project by the Mersey, what do you think are the reasons for the general renaissance from the vantage point of when you wrote your book and ever since?

[00:02:49] Professor Michael Parkinson: A whole set of things I would say.

First of all, the City learned it had to stop complaining, criticizing and start focusing on what it was good at and take control of its own future. So the leadership changed is the first thing to be said.

Secondly, 30 years ago the private sector and public sector were at odds at each other’s throat. That’s changed. So you’ve got now much more partnership approach and it’s a cliche to working together.

There’s some of the local factors, I think there’s some very important external factors.

As my book showed, British government made a huge difference when it was investing in cities. Liverpool went up and when it stopped investing in cities, Liverpool went down. So all the phase of Liverpool recovery coincided with governments which were keen to invest in cities basically. And you can look at that through the impact of Thatcher or New labor or austerity or coalition government. So national government when it’s against cities has harmed Liverpool when it’s forced cities has helped Liverpool.

And I think the really crucial feature is European Liverpool is a global trading city. It’s a European city. And frankly European money in the 1990s was a difference from between Liverpool collapsing and Liverpool recovering. 1.4 billion over 10 years.

Europe took a risk and invested in Liverpool when national government wouldn’t. And all that European money made the city region work together, focused on its modern assets, skills, labor, heritage, tourism, city center, digital green. All the things which drive the Liverpool economy now were identified by the European Commission.

Actually the European capital of culture in 2008 was a crucial event because it showed the world we could run a proper affair. It showed ourselves we could run a proper affair. And it gave the Scousers really a self confidence back that they’d lost. So you went from this culture of failure to a culture of success. The other big big thing was the Duke of Westminster through his property company investing in Liverpool One in the 2000s. And Liverpool One is the best mixed use city, century development in much of Europe. It was almost as much as European Commission money. 1.4 billion. It transformed the city center from a tired, rundown, shabby place to a place which was fit for a once great city. It connected the water to the city center to the commercial district, the cultural industries quarter.

There was a big hole at the central loophole and loophole one fixed it. So Europe capital of culture Liverpool won local leadership, Labour party changing its spots from the militant head banging into the Progressive Alliance. I also have to say there was some very good leadership in and around the 2000 when Labour was running National Government from 97 to 2010 the city was not run by Labour, it was run by the Liberal Democrats.

And frankly the then leader Mike Story, now Lord Story and the Chief executive David Henshaw, now Sir David Henshaw really saw the opportunity to reposition the city and I think they were the crucial local ingredient which capitalized upon the crucial national ingredient which is the Labour government’s invest in cities, which captured the private sector realizing we can make money in cities which built upon European investment. So a series of linked factors, from the personal to the political to the financial, tell the Liverpool story. It ain’t complete. There’s lots of issues where we haven’t done well enough economically, physically, socially, we all know there’s problems, but it is unrecognizable from the place it was 35 years ago. It had a very good boom and actually had quite a decent bust. And Liverpool did not go as far backwards during austerity and coalition government as it could have done. So we’re further up the hill and I think we’re staying there.

And obviously Covid and the pandemic has been a big hit for every city. We know that it’s been a big hit for Liverpool because a lot of it is based on what you might call a city centre economy, tourism, retail, but also it has been a great bonus to the city because we have a very powerful educational medical complex which actually is leading in a lot of the infectious drug business. So on the one hand Covid has hit what you might call the softer bit to the Liverpool city centre economy, but that is the lower value added bit. But actually it’s underlined. We’re a global leader in some of those really key, innovative, edgy things. So it’s shown there are even issues to address there. We know, but in terms of health, Liverpool leads. We’re doing all the government testing, all initiatives, all the pilots and they trust us. So I think it’s been a mixed blessing and obviously terrible tragedy for people and families and communities.

But it has also shown economically there is still a lot for Liverpool to go on.

[00:09:03] Henry McDonald: One interesting thing you said in your preamble was bringing the city centre to the water.

Now that brings me to the Mersey, specifically to a place called Bramley Moor Dock. Tell me about that project, what it’s going to do to this ongoing renaissance, as you call it, of Merseyside.

[00:09:21] Professor Michael Parkinson: The river made Liverpool the richest city in the greatest empire the world had ever seen outside of London. The collapse of the docks in the 60s and 70s and 80s dragged Liverpool down.

So it is the river has been absolutely crucial to the city’s economic renaissance to climb, rise and fall. Secondly, the River I think is better than most riverfronts you can see. You might argue at Boston, you might argue about New York, you might argue about Hamburg. But as a riverfront visually it is a stunning spectacle. It is big, it is wide, it is exciting.

And for 30 years Liverpool turned its back to the water, its back to the city. When the development corporation got going in the 80s, we started to see the role of the river and the waterfront. And encouraged by Europe we realized it was a terrific asset. And I think a huge amount has been done. But it’s been a very small part of the river, the waterfront.

And I think what it really means is we fixed part of the city center and a part of the waterfront. Now Evan Football Club have got these hugely ambitious plans to put one of the most sustainable, greenest stadia in one of the most challenging parts of Liverpool city and city centre, which is North Liverpool.

So it is a project which we can talk about the numbers in due course which would transform the worst part of the waterfront. It’s currently derelict and neglected. The only thing that’s near the dock is actually the local sewage treatment factory.

It is a part which is very close to North Liverpool which grew up on the docks. And when the docks decline it fell. And therefore that part of the city has the worst economic social problems of any bit of Liverpool city region.

And it is physically not more than one mile from the regenerated city center. So Evan Football Club having tried to develop a new stadium for a long time and failed and needing to develop a stadium because it’s a marvelous place but other than too small, have got a grand project to invest in Bramley Moor dock to make a really high quality building which respects heritage, which would form a huge anchor in North Liverpool, would tie that part of the city at Bramley Moor which is the furthest part of the old docks back into the city center and would be a driver of development in that 1 mile between Bramley Moor and frankly the Liber buildings.

There’s already quite a lot of development going on there because of Peel Waters Co. And there’s a lot of residential stuff and some office stuff and that’s taking place.

But the football stadium would be a huge economic driver. I mean we could talk about the figures about economic impact. It would be a terrific heritage thing. It would be a great visible project which would attract tourists and it would physically anchor and ensure that the growth of the city went back out into the parts which had failed. So huge symbolic significance, huge cultural significance, huge physical significance and hugely exciting and at the other end of the waterfront where we had the Garden Festival of Michael Heseltine 1984. And I should say Michael Heseltine was, I should have mentioned as who helped fix Liverpool. He did with the Mersey Development Corporation City Challenge with Devolution letting go city regions. Heseltine and national level drove many of the initiatives which helped Liverpool. But we left the Garden Festival site go to Rack and Roam that is now being developed in the south side of the city.

So what Liverpool has in prospect are two major developments, one north, one south, which themselves would be hugely significant but would fill in the rest of the river down to the city centre.

This is Liverpool’s new great project.


“Liverpool is the pool of life. It makes to live.” Carl Jung

Source Links

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  10. £2.4m for community flood, erosion and water quality projects – https://www.ukri.org/news/2-4m-for-community-flood-erosion-and-water-quality-projects/
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  14. Case studies – https://interlace-hub.com/case-study-finder
  15. Nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation: challenges and opportunities for the ASEAN region – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-singapore-cop26-universities-network-policy-reports/nature-based-solutions-for-climate-change-mitigation-challenges-and-opportunities-for-the-asean-region
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  26. PDF – https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/media/livacuk/publicpolicyamppractice/reports/Towards,a,Cleaner,and,Greener,City,(Long,Version).pdf

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