Urban Rebranding Factfile - Liverpool

Liverpool, England.

Why was it necessary?

In the past, Liverpool has been a huge port (18^th and 19^th centuries), a leader of popular culture (1960s) and was badly affected by industrial decline (late 20^th century). Liverpool experienced economic as well as social deprivation along with high levels of crime and vandalism in the 1980s.

What was done?

The 19^th century former derelict Albert Dock has been revamped into shops and cafes as a tourist attraction and opened in 1988. It now attracts over 4 million visitors a year.

                The Merseyside Development Corporation reclaimed 4km² of derelict land by creating housing and thousands of new jobs in the city after the race riots in 1981.

                Since 2003, after being awarded the status of European Capital of Culture 2008, the city centre has been transformed with major investment. Nearly £4 billion was invested in the regeneration and the economy of the city has been boosted by £800 million additional income in 2008 alone.

                The waterfront was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004, reflecting the area’s historic importance…