successful on the world stage – and were directed to that stage. The major public sector buildings were conceived in a similar light. All of these set pieces define Liverpool’s appearance and are essential to its character.
Legibility: Liverpool is a city that is easy to read. Its topography, its landmarks, its views and vistas, and its strong sense of connectivity encourage exploration and bring delight.
Vision and Determination: Liverpool was built on a spirit of optimism and innovation, which is still reflected in its buildings. Being bold is a tradition for the city, willing to test new ideas and pioneer new technology. That underlying spirit remains, despite the massive difficulties of economic restructuring that have been faced.
Commercial Astuteness: The development of the city was driven by astute commercial decisions. The banks, exchanges and office buildings were the product of the hugely successful trade which resulted. These great, characteristic buildings celebrate the power and value of commerce.
Internationalism: The city has looked outwards to Ireland, to America and to the Far East and continues to do so. It has welcomed migration and is one of the country’s most cosmopolitan cities with a legacy of buildings that express cultural diversity. Today it is twinned with both Shanghai and San Francisco.
The People and their Culture: Cosmopolitan, outward-looking, pragmatic, bold, openminded people with a typically sardonic sense of humour. Music specifically – and a strong, highly-regarded artistic sector generally – put Liverpool on the world stage...and two pre-eminent football teams! There is a strong sense of belonging and of Liverpool’s role as the UK’s second city in the recent past. Artefacts and social remnants of that past remain a vital part of today’s identity for residents and visitors.
Human Activity: Liverpool, particularly the central parts, is characterised by bustling activity. In their heyday, the docks, the Pier Head and the waterfront were intensely active places, thronging with movement and the scene of constant movement. Now the focus of activity is the commercial core, the shopping area and tourist destinations. Without human activity these urban places are dead places.
4.7.2
These characteristics are referred to where relevant in the assessment, and the proposed scheme is also considered for how it represents these essential factors about Liverpool’s distinctiveness.
Liverpool Waters Heritage Impact Assessment
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