Good News Liverpool Summer 2026

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GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk

Summer 2026

PLAY TIME!

Brought to you in association with Liverpool Business Improvement District

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Saur you standing there - dino puppets are making a holidays appearance every Wednesday and Thursday at World Museum

ANOTHER BIG WIN FOR CITY LIVERPOOL has secured a remarkable hat-trick of international sporting successes, with three major events confirmed for the city that will deliver a big boost for hotels, hospitality and tourism.

The city will host the groundbreaking Inclusive Sport and Culture Festival in May 2027, the European Wheelchair Basketball Championships in

Liverpool lands three sport festivals September 2027, and the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in 2030. The triple win is testament to teamwork between Liverpool City Council and UK Sport, with support from Liverpool Accommodation BID.

Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool Business Improvement District, said the announcements showed how the Accommodation BID was helping Liverpool compete for events that bring lasting value for the city:

“We’re delighted to be able to support major sporting events like this through the Accommodation BID and overnight levy,” he added.

“Major international events play a Continued on Page 2

Restaurant Week was biggest ever - Page 12

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Big sporting wins for city

From Page 1 vital role in driving overnight stays, supporting our local hospitality sector and showcasing Liverpool as a worldclass destination for sport and culture.

“We have seen with events such as the World Boxing Championships that major sport gives a real boost to the city. It fills hotel rooms, brings people into restaurants, bars and attractions, and creates a more circular and sustainable visitor economy. These events are fantastic news and a great opportunity to welcome new visitors.”

For the Liverpool Accommodation BID, which uses an overnight levy to support major events and drive overnight stays, the three wins underline the central role the city’s visitor economy is playing in attracting international sport to the waterfront.

The first of the three landmark events will be the Inclusive Sport and Culture Festival, taking place from 2 to 8 May 2027. Described as a first-of-its-kind event in the UK, it will feature international competitions in Boccia, Para Athletics, Wheelchair Rugby and Paracanoe, alongside an arts programme delivered by Culture Liverpool and led by deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists.

Liverpool’s second major win will follow just months later, when the city hosts the 2027 European Wheelchair Basketball Championships from 11 to 19 September at the M&S Bank Arena.

The third success comes in gymnastics, with the 2030 Artistic World Championships in Liverpool, bringing one of the world’s biggest sporting events back to the UK. The championships will take place at the M&S Bank Arena on the Liverpool Experience Campus, welcoming more than 400 of the world’s best gymnasts from 80 countries and will be the first opportunity for athletes to qualify for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.

A study conducted as part of the bid projected the gymnastics could generate more than £8 million for the regional economy.

The event is also expected to strengthen participation pathways, with investment already supporting instructors, coaches, clubs and additional weekly places for children across the city.

EDITOR Rebecca Keegan

Independent spirit is the heart of Liverpool

BUSINESS FOCUS A new series in which we speak to the leaders of businesses in the Liverpool BID area. This issue is the turn of DAVID CASSIDY, Chief Executive Officer of the WEALTH at Work group Tell us about your business WEALTH at Work is a leading financial wellbeing, retirement and workplace savings specialist. We work with large organisations to help improve their employees’ financial future by providing financial education and guidance in the workplace. We are proudly rooted in Liverpool, and we’ve built a successful business that combines international reach with a very personal, people-focused culture.

How long have you been based in the BID area, and what first attracted you to this part of the city?

We’ve been in Liverpool city centre for over 20 years. I’m from this area, so there’s a personal connection, but it was also about what the city offers.

Liverpool’s always had an independent spirit, a strong commercial heritage and a willingness to do things differently. That suited the kind of business we wanted to be. Our confidence has been rewarded with access to great talent and a real sense of community.

What role does your business play in Liverpool’s economy or community?

Our biggest contribution is through jobs, skills and long-term opportunities. The group employs over 450 people and we continue to invest in the city as we grow. For example, we’ve created our own Academy, which gives people a route into a career in various aspects of Wealth Management through training, mentoring and professional qualifications. We are in the process of recruiting a further 16 people into our professional academy.

We believe the work we do also has a positive societal purpose. We help millions of employees to better understand pensions, savings and retirement.

rebecca@GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk

Pride and purpose - David Cassidy of WEALTH at Work What does being part of the Liverpool Business Improvement District mean for your business?

Being part of Liverpool BID connects us to the wider city centre business community. Recognition from your own city means a lot, and we were proud to be named Liverpool BID’s Business of the Month in March.

Liverpool BID plays an important role in championing businesses and helping to create a vibrant, well-supported commercial environment. It reinforces that we are part of something bigger; we are part of Liverpool’s continuing growth and confidence as a place to work, invest and build a future

real openness here. People want to collaborate, support each other and back good ideas. From our perspective, Liverpool offers access to excellent people and an ambitious business environment.

How important is community to the way you operate?

Liverpool is home for us, and that shapes our culture. We want to give people opportunity, support their development and look after their wellbeing. That means creating a workplace where colleagues feel valued and can build lasting careers, enjoy good wellbeing and look after their financial future.

What’s one thing you’d love people to know about your business?

People might not realise the scale and impact it has. We are a trusted partner for more than 700 large organisations across the public and private sectors, reaching millions of people.

Why is Liverpool such a great place to do business?

Liverpool is a city with enormous talent, leading universities, and a great work ethic. There’s also a

What’s been your biggest achievement recently?

We were recently recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work for the third consecutive year.

That’s incredibly important because it reflects what our colleagues think about working here. Our business has also received the globally recognised Investors in People accreditation.

What do you enjoy most about being part of Liverpool’s city centre community?

There’s a sense of pride and possibility that exists in Liverpool, which I find exhilarating. My experience of the local business community is one of genuine warmth where people want each other to succeed.

From customer to owner

Good News Liverpool was founded

by Rebecca Keegan in 2015 as an independent print publication aimed at promoting positivity, wellness and the often overlooked achievements of Liverpool’s business community.

Follow us on Instagram @goodnewsliverpool Send us a story Editorial@GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk

Summer 2026

Sharon Kaur and daughters

A FORMER accountant from the West Midlands has taken a new direction in life by opening a piri-piri restaurant in Liverpool.

Located on Seel Street, Piri Fino is owned and operated by Sharon Kaur, 42.

Sharon said: “After years in accountancy, I wanted to build something of my own. I’ve been a

customer of Piri Fino for years, so it was a natural choice when I decided to take that step.

“The food is fresh, full of flavour and something I genuinely enjoy, which made it easy to stand behind as a business.”

The first Piri Fino opened in 2010 in the Midlands and now has 12 UK locations.

Summer 2026

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Festival has home at its heart

Arabian delights - supporters of the 24th Liverpool Arab Arts Festival

LIVERPOOL Arab Arts Festival (LAAF) returns for its 24th year this July.

Founded in 1998, LAAF exists to support creatives from across the Arab region and its diaspora in the belief that art and creativity have the power to express a shared humanity.

This year’s theme is HOME, unfolding across a diverse range of disciplines, including music,

Party time as Pride roars back to its best LIVERPOOL’S PRIDE returns this summer as organisers unveil a significantly expanded, city-wide programme designed to attract visitors from across the country.

Following the cancellation of last year’s event and a six-week recovery effort to deliver a scaled-back celebration, Liverpool’s Pride 2026 marks a major comeback, evolving into a full weekend festival spanning headline music performances, community celebration, and city-wide activity.

Taking place across 24–25 July, the weekend will transform Liverpool into a major Pride destination, with organisers expecting tens of thousands of attendees from across the UK. The weekend will begin with an opening party at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena on Friday 24 July, featuring the Sugababes, Beth Ditto, Bimini, Tia Kofi, House Gospel Choir and Horse Meat Disco alongside dozens of local performers.

Proceeds from the Official Opening Party will support the work of Sahir House for the LGBTQ+ community, while also contributing to Liverpool’s Pride Saturday programme.

The Pride March will once again take centre stage on Saturday 25 July, bringing thousands together in a visible show of solidarity and support for LGBTQ+ communities.

Dedicated transport will operate across the Pride Quarter, making it easier than ever for visitors to explore key venues including The Lisbon, OMG, Superstar Boudoir, Heaven, The Masquerade and GBar. Mark Christopherson, of organisers Sahir, said: “Liverpool’s Pride 2026 represents a huge step forward - not just for the city, but as part of the wider UK Pride landscape. Following last year’s challenges, we’ve worked hard to rebuild something bigger, more inclusive and more ambitious.

We’re proud to invite people from across the country to experience Liverpool at its very best.”

theatre, visual art, literature and film. The festival programme culminates with the popular LAAF Family Day. Chair of Liverpool Arab Arts Festival, Afrah Qassim said: “Home is our roots, our memories, and the stories we carry with us wherever we go.”

Acts announced for the festival so far include Tamsin Elliott and Tarek Elazhary presenting the

world premiere of Album 2 on Friday July 24 at the Philharmonic Music Room The LAAF Family Day - which includes children’s events, Arabic and Middle Eastern food, crafts, arts and entertainments such as dance and storytelling, takes place on Sunday July 26 (12pm – 5pm) at Sefton Park Palm House and entry is free.

Visit arabartsfestival.com.

Hot gossip - Beth Ditto is one of the star names performing

What’s on and where guide to events THERE are a host of events taking place for 2026’s Pride. Here is your, at a glance, guide.

Liverpool’s Pride Opening Party Friday 24 July, M&S Bank Arena Liverpool’s Pride – Saturday programme - Saturday 25 July, Liverpool Experience Campus & city-wide Liverpool’s Pride Expo - Saturday 25 July, Liverpool Experience Campus Pride March (organised by LCR Pride Foundation) - Saturday 25 July

Sonic Yootha at Kitchen Street 25th July - Saturday 25th July, 9pm4am Garlands - Fairies Across the Mersey - The Daffodil - Saturday 25th July, 6pm-Midnight Sapphic Social - Pride on the Roof Tempest on Tithebarn - Saturday 25th July, 6pm-late Veteran’s Pride - HMS Eaglet Friday 24th July, from 6pm Alongside major headline events, Liverpool’s Pride will deliver a

vibrant community programme on Saturday 25 July at Liverpool Experience Campus on the city’s waterfront.

Hosted by Debbie Darling, the event will showcase LGBTQ+ talent and voices, with performances including House of Suarez, Sonia and Jester Boy, alongside further special guests.

The Liverpool’s Pride Expo will bring together businesses, creatives and community organisations, creating a hub for connection.

Sugababe - Keisha Buchanan

BID aiming to build on business district’s buzz

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A CAMPAIGN has launched to encourage investors and young professionals to move to Liverpool’s Commercial Business District.

Funded by Liverpool Business Improvement District, the campaign showcases the economic and lifestyle benefits of moving to the heart of the city’s commercial neighbourhood.

A new website showcases the investment opportunities, including schemes like Royal Liver Building, Martin’s Bank and Avenue HQ. There is 830k sq ft of Grade A office space across the Central Business District available for £120 per sq ft, compared to £218 in Manchester and £806 in London. The Pall Mall

Gardens project – supported by Liverpool City Council – is another that is moving forward.

The site also shares stories from the business community within the Commercial Business District with firms including Sony and ShedKM providing testimonials.

At the same time, an advertising campaign has launched in London and Manchester, encouraging young professionals to explore moving to the city.

Liverpool has a graduate retention rate of 76% and the city is in the top 10 for those looking to move from the south, due to factors such as affordable housing and living costs

and Liverpool’s dynamic culture.

Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool Business Improvement District said: “The Commercial District is the fuel of our economy. It’s vital that this is the location where we can showcase the office space that combines the rich heritage and architecture of the city, alongside modern and flexible workspaces.

“The city is buzzing and its culture and hospitality is a major draw. Our message to young people who want to build a life in a city that is beautiful, interconnected and brimming with opportunity is ‘look to Liverpool’.”

For more about the campaign, visit lcbd.co.uk

Summer 2026

Message - Bill Addy

Thousands on the dancefloor LEAP DANCE FESTIVAL 2026 has been a huge success with thousands of visitors enjoying the busy 16-day programme of events and activities.

More than 8,500 people attended the annual festival which was staged at locations including theatres, cultural venues and outdoor events across Liverpool– an 8% rise on the figure in 2024 when a similar number of events were held and a huge 83% higher than last year’s more intimate festival.

Some 625 performers, including 296 young people, were involved in the festival which saw 11 new commissioned festival dance works.

Leap’s prestigious Dance Prize was awarded to Zara Phillips and Natassa Argyropoulou for their piece which explores dance as a universal act of celebration. Meanwhile a new community dance film produced by Chaos Arts CIC - who organise the festival - will be released this summer.

Love, laugh, Leap - more than 8,500 people attended and took part in the Leap Dance Festival

Street Laros savours the flavours Hope supper club POPULAR Bold Street restaurant Laros celebrated five years in business with a street party event giving away prizes from free food to a trip to Greece.

Founded by Crete-born owner Nikolaos Fylladitakis, Laros launched on Bold Street five years ago with a mission to introduce authentic Greek street food to Liverpool, sourcing ingredients directly from Greece and preparing everything in-house.

He said: “The support we’ve had has been incredible. Liverpool has truly embraced what we’ve created and we’ve seen a real love for authentic Greek flavours grow.”

Greece is the word - Laros staff celebrate its fifth birthday

HOPE STREET HOTEL is bringing one of London’s most sought-after dining trends to Liverpool.

The Supper Club will start on 28th June, with a Greek theme followed by a Spanish themed event on 23rd August.

Acoustic music from the themed country will also play at the events.

Jan Morris of Hope Street Hotel said: “Set against panoramic city views and open-air terraces, it’s more than just dinner, it’s a shared experience. Guests are seated along long tables, creating a warm, communal atmosphere and encouraging conversation from the moment you arrive.”

Summer 2026

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New care plan for dementia

Model vision - visitors take part in a consultation event on the future direction of the museums

PLANS to improve the lives of people living with dementia and their families have been unveiled by Liverpool City Council and its partners.

The Dementia Strategic Action Plan aims to strengthen support services, improve awareness of dementia, and ensure people living with the condition can stay active and connected to their communities. It also highlights the importance of supporting carers.

In Liverpool, there are currently around 3,500 people living with a diagnosis of dementia. It is estimated a further 1,600 people may be living with the condition without diagnosis.

By 2040, this number is expected to rise to more than 7,000.

In response to the challenges, a strategy has been developed in partnership with health organisations NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board, Liverpool Dementia Action Alliance, people with lived experience, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, the Alzheimer’s Society, and others.

Dockside museums Conference ranking rises set for £19m renewal MAJOR plans for the future of Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum have received £19 million backing.

The support from the Department of Culture Media and Sport’s Public Bodies Infrastructure Fund represents an exciting new chapter for Liverpool’s historic waterfront and its contribution to the city’s £6 billion visitor economy.

Laura Pye, Director, National Museums Liverpool said: “The transformation of the museums is a landmark project for Liverpool’s historic waterfront, promising to bring a significant boost to the region’s visitor economy.

“With the vision for both museums driven by community stakeholders it also represents a powerful moment for unheard or under-represented stories to have a platform like never before.

“We’re hugely grateful to the UK Government for this investment and the confidence it shows in the vision for the museums.”

Museums Minister, Baroness Twycross, said: “The transformation

Monumental - an artist’s impression of the new entrance embodies the museums’ commitment to storytelling, education and the representation of Liverpool’s history on the local, national and global stage.

“Liverpool’s historic waterfront is such an iconic part of our heritage, and I look forward to this investment bolstering these museums’ position at the forefront of historic engagement and education.”

Maritime Museum was opened in 1986 as part of the revitalisation of the

Albert Dock during that decade. The International Slavery Museum opened in 2007, with its evolution from a basement gallery to a major museum powered by local activism.

Among the changes planned are a monumental new entrance for International Slavery Museum and a link bridge to connect Hartley Pavilion and the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building, creating a ‘pause-point’ with panoramic views across the docks.

Bus Yard gets on board Liza Marco of Liverpool Waters and Andy Laird of The Bus Yard

THE Bus Yard has opened a waterfront venue at Princes Dock.

The Bus Yard Liverpool Waters will be open from 11am-8pm each day throughout the summer Known for transforming outdoor spaces using converted buses and shipping containers, the Bus Yard is the latest addition to the Liverpool

Waters area. Princes Dock is home to thousands of residents and workers, two major hotels - Malmaison and Crowne Plaza and sits alongside key attractions including Liverpool’s Cruise Liner Terminal (welcoming more than 100 ships a year), and the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal.

LIVERPOOL has reinforced its position as one of the UK’s leading destinations for international conferences, according to the latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings.

Liverpool hosted 22 qualifying meetings last year, moving from 173rd to 112th globally.

Only London, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Manchester currently rank ahead of Liverpool within the UK. International conferences generate significant economic impact for Liverpool City Region, bringing highvalue visitors into the destination.

Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool Business Improvement District, who oversee the Accommodation BID, said: “The ambition of our hotel sector when it pushed for an ABID was to achieve exactly this kind of success.

The overnight visitor levy delivers its success because it is driven by a single metric; to increase overnight stays.”

Funding for pamper Kidz KIDZ Pamper Bus, a fast-growing children’s mobile entertainment business operating across Lancashire and the wider North West, has secured £50,000 to grow their business.

The company, founded and led by Rebecca McGregor, offers a mobile pamper and party experience for primary school-aged children.

The latest investment comes from River Capital & GC Business Finance Smaller Loans - which has offices in The Plaza in the city’s Commercial District - as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.

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Return of the Black Horse

DGB Hospitality Group, has acquired its ninth Liverpool city centre venue, with The Black Horse and Rainbow set to open following a £750,000 investment.

The latest addition joins the group’s growing portfolio, which includes Gloria’s, Petit Café Berry Street, Petit Café Lark Lane, Loretta’s, Three Piggies, Pogue Mahone, Motel and Teddy’s. The project will create 25 new hospitality jobs in the city.

The new venue, which is on Berry Street, occupies a site with a colourful and storied history in the Ropewalks district of the city. DGB have pledged to honour the building’s heritage whilst undertaking an extensive refurbishment.

The Berry Street site was originally called The Masonic Arms and home to rock gigs, and after that it became Trader Jacks as a traditional pub. The original Black Horse and Rainbow launched in 1990 with its own inhouse brewery, later changing to The Metropolitan with the iconic club The Lemon Lounge upstairs. Since 2015 the site has been Red Door.

Sean Singleton of DGB Hospitality Group said: “Opening any new site is always exciting, but this project feels particularly special because of the history attached to the building.”

Another Blue Flag for docks NATIONAL waterways charity, Canal & River Trust, has been awarded its sixth consecutive international Blue Flag award for the Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock marinas in Liverpool.

The Trust, which looks after 36 hectares of water at Liverpool’s South Docks, received the accolade from the Keep Britain Tidy charity.

The water quality within the docks is of the highest standard and is home to an array of wildlife including thousands of blue mussels, hundreds of eels and, during summer, moon jellyfish.

Andrew Goudie, North West Harbour Manager at Canal & River Trust, said: “Research has shown that being by water makes us feel happier and healthier, and this award really highlights how a water space can make a place come alive.”

Creature feature - Prize-winning sculpture Skalli plays with our ideas of what is real and not

Sculpture winner brings myth alive MYTHOLOGY and folklore come together in this year’s Liverpool Sculpture Prize winner.

Skalli is a seated figure, part fish, part human, drawn from a folklore that feels as though it has always existed around the Mersey. Created by artist Patric Rogers, the work will remain on the plinth at Liverpool Parish Church for twelve months.

Managed by Liverpool Business Improvement District and Liverpool Parish Church, the prize sees a new work installed each year on the plinth at the historic church.

Patric Rogers is a Liverpool-born,

Wirral based artist, working across sculpture, film and interdisciplinary forms.

He said: “Public art has the ability to add a layer of storytelling to a city’s streets, and what I wanted to explore with Skalli is the idea of how true that story telling is.”

Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool Business Improvement District added: “Art plays such a vital role in our public realm, not simply animating our streets but as a place to gather our stories.

“I am looking forward to seeing people’s reactions to it.”

Patric Rogers

Chinese breakthrough Hope Street family fun

Noodle bar’s tasty revamp NOODLE bar Chopstix has opened its refurbished store in Lord Street.

To celebrate the refurb, Chopstix gave away free medium boxes to the first 100 customers, along with 1,000 portions of spring rolls.

Gareth Brannigan, head of new store openings, said “We have been blown away by the response from customers.

It’s a really exciting time for our business as a whole.”

Summer 2026

LIVERPOOL Business Improvement District has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Beijing Investment Promotion Bureau in a move designed to strengthen business, investment and cultural links between the two cities.

The agreement was signed at the Royal Liver Building during a twoday visit by a senior delegation from Beijing and creates a framework for closer commercial collaboration, inward investment, knowledge exchange and future delegation visits.

LIVERPOOL Business Improvement District and Hope Street CIC are holding a free family trail this Summer.

From Saturday 1st August – Sunday 13th September, families have the chance to visit incredible venues and even collect goodies.

Venues taking part include: Liverpool Anglican Cathedral Blackburne House Hope Street Hotel Fredricks Free State Kitchen Victoria Museum & Gallery The Metropolitan Cathedral Liverpool Everyman Theatre Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Collect your worksheet from Liverpool Cathedral to get started.

For more information go to liverpoolbidcompany.com

Summer 2026

www.GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk | 7

action Hospitality group toasts bar title Smoke seeing results

LIVERPOOL hospitality group GSG Hospitality has been named Bar Business of the Year at the CLASS Bar Awards 2026, recognising the group’s outstanding contribution to the UK bar industry and its continued success in a challenging trading landscape.

Co-owners John Ennis and Matt Farrell and their business partner Nick Thomas were awarded the title at the Battersea Arts Centre in London.

Over the past two decades, GSG Hospitality has built an impressive portfolio of venues across the North West. The group owns and operates a collection of popular bars across Liverpool and Manchester including Salt Dog Slims, tequila and mezcal bar El Bandito, Manolo and cocktail venue

Off the leash - Salt Dog Slims is just one of GSG’s venues 81Ltd alongside a wider portfolio spanning almost 20 venues.

John Ennis, co-owner of GSG Hospitality, said: “Hospitality has faced some serious challenges in

recent years, so this is a real credit to our teams across every venue who work unbelievably hard to create great experiences for our customers every day.”

LIVERPOOL City Council has reaffirmed its position as a national leader in public health by announcing it has signed the Pledge for a Smokefree UK, committing to go “further and faster” to reduce smoking prevalence to less than one per cent by 2040.

From January 2027, people born on or after 1 January 2009 will never be legally sold tobacco products. The Bill also introduces tougher controls on vape advertising and access for young people and could enable the expansion of smokefree places.

Liverpool continues to lead nationally on tobacco control, with smoking rates in the city declining faster than anywhere else in England.

Action to tackle underage vaping is also delivering results. Between 2023 and 2025, more than 250 test purchases were carried out, with attempted sales of vapes to minors falling sharply from 31 per cent to 10 per cent over the two-year period.

For help quitting, phone 0151 374 2535 or text QUIT1 to 61825.

Runner Alex’s royal honour

Two to tango - Liverpool BID are supporting businesses with a series of free summer events

Free street events celebrate summer LIVERPOOL will be ‘Celebrating Summer’ every week with special events across the city centre.

From 18 June until 27 August, there will be free events at locations across the city, from Bold Street, along the waterfront, Hope Street, St George’s Quarter, Derby Square, the Commercial District and more.

With an events programme, organised and supported by Liverpool Business Improvement District, you can visit a new place in the city centre for a free event designed to help you relax and get outside in the city.

A sound bath at Tempest on Tithebarn, food giveaways at Exchange Flags and Derby Square, mini golf, live music at Princes Dock and Williamson Square, street theatre on Bold Street, circus acts at the Pier Head, a chillout session on deck chairs at the waterfront, there will be something from everyone.

Katie Bentley Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communications at Liverpool Business Improvement District said: “Celebrating Summer will add joy and activity for everyone in the city centre this summer.

“We want to keep this city centre accessible to everyone. Whether you want to dance to live music in the street, or have a quiet moment to chill and relax, there will be something for everyone and their family and friends.

There will be animation and activity across the whole of the city.

“Our message is simple; get outside and relax, enjoy the city and everything it has to offer. And it’s all free”.

Follow @Liverpoolbidcompany on social media and visit www. liverpoolbidcompany.com for further information.

MERSEYRAIL and local domestic abuse charity Centre 56 have joined together to congratulate Alex Rigby on being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours, in recognition of his outstanding services to charity.

Alex has been recognised following his fundraising efforts through Running the Railways events in 2024 and 2025.

The ultra-marathon events raised more than £80,000 for Centre 56, a Kirkdale-based charity supporting families affected by domestic abuse, as part of Merseyrail’s Charity of the Year programme.

The nomination was jointly made by Merseyrail and Centre 56, reflecting the impact Alex’s fundraising has had on families across the region.

On the march for wellbeing UK CHARITY Hospitality Action’s annual fundraising event, Walk for Wellbeing, will return to Liverpool in October for its biggest year yet bringing together hospitality professionals from across the region in support of wellbeing.

Christine Henney, HR Director at Titanic Hotel Liverpool and host of the Liverpool walk, said: “Liverpool has always had a strong sense of community across hospitality, and Walk for Wellbeing is a chance for people from every part of the industry to join together.”

Everyone in the hospitality industry and beyond is invited to take part. For more information and to register visit walkforwellbeing.org

Summer 2026

8 | www.GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk

Homes plan for police site

ONE of Liverpool’s most recognisable waterfront sites is set for a new chapter as development work begins on the Merseyside Police’s former headquarters.

Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell has handed over the keys for Canning Place to the Government’s housing and regeneration agency Homes England following the sale of the site for £17m.

Plans for a mixed-use residentialled development scheme are likely to include new homes, a hotel, shops, leisure facilities and areas of open space.

Canning Place, which first opened its doors in 1977 and acted as Merseyside Police’s headquarters for more than 40 years, is positioned in a prime location just a stone’s throw from the city’s waterfront, facing the Albert Dock.

The site includes the former sevenfloor headquarters building which is more than 135,000 square feet, an annex, car park and gatehouse.

Plaza shows office demand BRUNTWOOD SciTech has secured a series of significant new lettings at The Plaza in Liverpool city centre, following a £4.3 million investment across its Liverpool portfolio.

New customers include familyowned food and agriculture business The Billington Group, professional services firm KPMG and wealth management and investment solutions company Hoxton Wealth.

The 352,000 sq ft building is now 97% occupied, reflecting continued demand from innovation-led businesses for high-quality workspace in the city centre.

As part of this continued evolution, Bruntwood SciTech will also introduce a gym for customers on the ground floor, featuring its own dedicated entrance.

Sam Birtwistle, Associate Commercial Director at Bruntwood SciTech, said: “We’re focused on ensuring The Plaza is a place where businesses and their people can thrive.”

Hotel pulls in new manager PULLMAN LIVERPOOL has announced the appointment of Stephen Rycroft as its new General Manager.

Located on the waterfront and connected to Liverpool Experience Campus (formerly ACC Liverpool), Pullman Liverpool is a popular destination for both business and leisure travellers.

Stephen said: “The team has achieved remarkable success, and I look forward to working alongside them to continue delivering memorable experiences for our guests while driving the hotel forward into its next phase of growth.”

THE Cillo Family has expanded its growing portfolio with the launch of CasaCillo, a new Italian dining destination in Duke Street.

Located alongside sister venue Botanico, CasaCillo will allow guests to enjoy watching

dishes being completed at their table.

Donato Cillo said: “Every visit should feel like an occasion, combining exceptional food with the warmth and theatre that are at the heart of Italian hospitality.”

It’s all change for Central Station LIVERPOOL’S busiest gateway could be set for a major transformation as work begins on a designing a new look for the Central Station area.

Liverpool Central has been chosen as a pilot project for the Government’s reformed “Green Book” appraisal process, aimed at unlocking a £5bn transformation of the station and surrounding area.

This 86-acre project aims to create a world-class transport hub to transform connectivity, drive regeneration, and unlock economic growth in Liverpool City Region and the North West of England.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Central is one of the busiest and most important transport gateways in the country - and the area around it should match the ambition of the city it serves.

“This is a chance for us to think bigger about the future of one of the key front doors to Liverpool - creating a greener, safer and better connected gateway that works for residents, businesses and the millions of people who pass through it every year.

“Working with Liverpool City Council and partners, we can make sure this becomes more than a transport upgrade - but a catalyst for wider regeneration, investment and opportunity in the heart of the city.”

Sliding doors moment - how a new Central Station could look The framework will be led by Liverpool City Council, working with Network Rail, and will outline how land is used, how public spaces are shaped, how people and vehicles move through the area, and will also set out principles for future development and regeneration opportunities.

Such is the scale of the project it would greatly enhance access to jobs, housing, leisure, and business while advancing the region and the county’s net zero goals.

The design principle for the proposed new station is to seamlessly integrate with Liverpool Lime Street and connect Merseyrail services with

national rail services, in a similar way that King’s Cross and St Pancras operate together as a transport hub.

By doing so, it will boost links to the Knowledge Quarter, Queen Square, and the city’s world-famous waterfront, while enabling new green public realm and creating high-quality living, office, and leisure spaces.

Mayor Rotheram secured £95m from the Government in March to support his plans to develop the business case for major regeneration projects, including Liverpool Central.

Initial work on the plans will be carried out by architects Hawkins/ Brown.

Summer 2026

Spectacular specials on offer for theatre-lovers

www.GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk | 9

Photo by Pamela Raith

By NIGEL SMITH

Whilst many theatres take a bit of a break through the peak holiday period, there is still plenty to whet the appetite on stage in Liverpool, both through the summer and as we head towards the autumn. From big touring shows to new locally produced work, and from great comedy to intense drama, our theatres are ready to keep you entertained and enthralled.

At the Liverpool Empire: Moulin Rouge! The Musical - 2 July to 8 August The Empire is transformed when the multi-award-winning musical version of Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to Liverpool as it embarks on a World Tour. A celebration of truth, beauty, freedom and - above all love, Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical; it is a state of mind.

Hot tickets - Barnum (above) and Moulin Rogue! (below)

The Waitress - 7-12 September Carrie Hope Fletcher takes to the stage alongside Liverpool’s own Les Dennis in this story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, in search of the recipe for happiness.

Brought to life by a ground-breaking, female-led creative team, this production has had the critics in raptures.

Barnum - 15-19 September Matt Rawle takes to the tightrope as legendary showman P.T. Barnum.

This spectacular production will feature an extraordinary ensemble cast of actor-musicians, acrobats and circus acts.

At The Royal Court Take Me Home County Road - 31 July - 1 August Could Shelly really swap the street-lamps of County Road for the spotlights of stardom, or is she destined to save her singing talents for a once-in-a-blue-moon karaoke night down at The Black Horse?

Come and join her on her journey from Wavertree to Tennessee (or thereabouts) in Adam McCoy’s new comedy, starring Eithne Brown, Helen Carter, Adam McCoy, Keddy Sutton and Lenny Wood. It’ll have Photo by Chris Christodoulou

Andrew Manze

Who baked all the pies? Carrie Hope-Fletcher in The Waitress. Photos by Matt Crockett you laughing and singing until the cowboys come home!

Letter to Brezhnev - 11 September - 17 October Frank Clarke’s adaptation of his screen classic. Teresa and Elaine are young, beautiful and full of life, but they don’t think that will last long because it’s 1985 and this is Kirkby.

Sergei and Peter are fresh off the boat and revelling in being away from the Soviet Union, and Liverpool has opened their eyes. A love story that promises to be an instant classic.

At Unity Theatre Grindr The Opera - 1-5 September This award winning musical parody

from Above The Stag Theatre Ltd takes you on a hilarious and thought provoking journey through the world of gay dating. Featuring a glorious score, witty dialogue and colourful characters, this unique production explores the impact of technology on human connection and the search for meaningful relationships.

The Story of Edith Smith - 16 September Edith Smith was born in Oxton and later became Britain’s first female Police Constable with full powers of arrest. This production from Oxton Playwrights follows Edith’s journey from local woman to national figure, exploring the challenges she faced at

a time when women’s roles in public life were tightly restricted. The play examines not only Edith’s role in policing, but the wider social world around her.

At the Everyman Death of a Salesman - 19 Sept – 10 Oct Continuing their Made in Liverpool series is Trystan Fynn-Aiduenu’s new production of Arthur Miller’s celebrated classic, widely considered to be one of America’s greatest plays.

Seamlessly weaving past and present into one of theatre’s most enduring stories, Death of a Salesman reveals a family at breaking point and a man in conflict with his own sense of worth.

Enigma to be unlocked in Phil’s new season THE Philharmonic Hall has unveiled its early autumn programme with two highlights to put into your diary, writes NIGEL SMITH. On September 17, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra open their 2026/7 season under the baton of Principal Guest Conductor Andrew Manze, who will explore

the uncracked code behind Elgar’s Enigma Variations. The programme opens with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, and features Guy Johnston as soloist in Britten’s Cello Symphony.

On October 1, Chief Conductor Domingo Hindoyan returns to the podium with the RLPO, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir,

and soloists Lucy Crowe and Natalie Lewis for Mahler’s truly epic Resurrection Symphony.

From the arresting opening to the overwhelming power of its choral finale, this monumental work is a rare treat.

Visit liverpoolphil.com for a full programme of summer events.

10 | www.GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk

A smoother Experience THE ACC Liverpool Group, operators of ACC Liverpool, Exhibition Centre Liverpool and M&S Bank Arena, have announced its new name: Liverpool Experience Campus.

Going forward, individual venues will be designated as the Convention Centre at Liverpool Experience Campus or the Exhibition Centre at Liverpool Experience Campus, providing delegates with clearer guidance and making it easier to navigate the campus. M&S Bank Arena’s name will not change.

Opening its convention centre and arena in 2008, the campus expanded in 2015 with the addition of Exhibition Centre Liverpool and the Pullman Liverpool Hotel.

LCRDP board member and Liverpool Experience Campus Chief Executive Officer, Faye Dyer, said: “Our new identity is inspired by the unique spirit of Liverpool and defines, with confidence, who we are and what we stand for. We are not a single venue; we are a campus of brands – four stages that deliver a collection of experiences.

“The new approach represents the scale and flexibility of our multi‑venue campus, one of our greatest strengths, and expresses clearly the full depth and breadth of what we offer and what we want to be in future.”

Fab tours getting better all the time A NEW code of conduct for all tour guides and visitors to Beatles landmarks in Liverpool is being published by The Beatles Legacy Group.

The code, agreed by The Liverpool City Region Tourist Guides Association, The Beatles Story and supported by Liverpool Business Improvement District, has been developed to give guidance to all those visiting residential areas across Liverpool, including The Beatles’ childhood homes, Strawberry Field and Penny Lane.

Summer 2026

Some sites are managed by the National Trust but all are accessible via public roads and streets.

In 2024, a Blue Plaque was erected on the birthplace home of George Harrison at Arnold Grove in Wavertree. Blue Badge Tour Guide Jackie Spencer posted last summer that the increase in visitors and tours to the narrow streets had led to residents erecting a metal chain to manage access.

Peter Hooton, Chair of The Beatles Legacy Group, who was involved in consultations with tour guides, said:

“We know the impact of The Beatles on our city’s economy. However, we do have to be mindful and conscious that much of The Beatles physical landmarks are within residential areas. Those residents have a right to privacy and consideration. We want people to get great pictures and capture their memories, but it is important that we remind visitors of their responsibility to be respectful.

“We are confident this code of conduct will be welcomed by guides and visitors to benefit all those living and visiting these famous locations.”

New push for women’s care MEDICAL, civic and community groups have committed themselves to find new ways to improve health outcomes for women in Liverpool.

A Women’s Health Conference, which took place in the Town Hall, brought women with lived experience together with neighbourhood organisations, front-line professionals and system leaders to listen, share and strengthen advocacy.

Liverpool has been identified as a region where health outcomes for women are below the national average and the conference agreed more must be done to improve access to services.

Dr Fiona Lemmens, Executive Clinical Director, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: “As leaders we have a responsibility to respond differently.”

Appeal for ambassadors PROFESSIONALS across the Liverpool City Region are being encouraged to join a growing network of academics, clinicians and industry leaders who are helping to secure major national and international conferences for the region, as Club Liverpool celebrates the achievements of its ambassador community.

Club Liverpool is a partnership between Liverpool Convention Bureau and the Liverpool Experience Campus.

Visit clubliverpool.co.uk

CITY-BASED surveyors Sutcliffe raised £110,000 for three Liverpool NHS charities at its annual Spring Charity Ball.

The evening brought together the business community in support of the Clatterbridge Cancer, Liverpool Women’s Hospital and University Hospitals of Liverpool charities.

The evening also honoured the memory of

Sue Wright, a former barrister, business-giant and charity fundraiser, whose experiences battling cancer inspired a significant donation from Matt Morris of Home Bargains.

Faisal Arif, Sue’s partner and CEO of The Harrogate Group, paid tribute to Sue’s kindness, dedication and the lasting impact she made on those around her.

Health club turns up the heat A NEW social-wellness destination will open in Liverpool this August.

Located on David Lewis Street within The Prestige building, Attis Bathing Club is designed as a premium, community-minded alternative to the norm, providing a social space for people to connect, complete with a 30-capacity Finnish sauna, filtered ice baths and dedicated red-light therapy.

Attis is the brainchild of Liverpool couple, Jennifer Gledhill and Lewis Boardman. Jennifer, who spent seven years living in Sydney, was inspired by the seamless integration of wellness

Attis Bathing Club into everyday social life in Australia.

Jennifer said: “We’re so excited to bring this unique experience to our hometown.”

The club will specialise in Guided Contrast Therapy, a practice which involves alternating between extreme hot and cold environments to boost metabolism, circulation and mental clarity.

Classes will range from breath-work and sound baths to dopamine and sleep resets. Additionally, Attis will offer traditional Aufguss, a multi-sensory ritual where sauna masters use aromatic steam and choreographed towel movements to create an immersive, meditative heat experience.

Attis will be open seven days a week from 7am–8pm.

Summer 2026

Mayor’s mission to boost inclusion LIVERPOOL’S new Lord Mayor, Cllr William Shortall, is the first wheelchair user in the city’s history to take up the role, saying he wants to use his year in office to shine a spotlight on inclusion and accessibility.

He said: “As the first wheelchair user to hold this office in our city’s 816-year history, I am deeply proud to represent

a community that values inclusion, resilience and opportunity for all.”

His chosen charity will be the Greenbank Project, which works to offer opportunities in education, sport and recreation to disabled people in the city.

As Chair of Liverpool City Council’s Corporate Access Forum, he also leads

Art for all as city fair sets record LIVERPOOL ART FAIR is back at the Royal Liver Building this summer, showcasing a record 245 local artists across six weeks of free entry, creative workshops, and the chance to own an original piece of art for as little as £25.

Now in its 12th year, the fair runs until 26th July 2026, open seven days a week, 12–5pm, with free entry throughout. Since launching at Camp and Furnace in 2012, Liverpool Art Fair has welcomed almost 70,000 art lovers and showcased the work of over 2,700 artists, facts that reflect the enduring appetite for affordable, accessible art in the region.

Lucy Byrne, Managing Director of dot-art, organisers of the event, said: “Twelve years in, and what strikes me most is how consistent the appetite for this event has been. We’ve grown, the artists have grown, and the audiences keep coming back and bringing new people with them. A record 245 artists this year feels like a milestone, but what matters most is that someone will walk in off the street, fall in love with a piece of art, and take it home. That’s what this has always been about.”

Alongside the exhibition, Liverpool Art Fair will once again host a programme of workshops in partnership with Cass Art, giving visitors the chance to try their hand at a range of techniques throughout the summer, as well as free, informal talks from exhibiting artists every weekend. More details are available at liverpoolartfair.com.

work to ensure disabled residents’ voices shape decision-making.

Councillor Shortall has been a councillor since 2019, representing Old Swan and then Old Swan West since 2023. His wife Marie will be Lady Mayoress, with two adult daughters, Melissa and Laura, sharing the role of consort.

www.GoodNewsLiverpool.co.uk | 11

Cllr William Shortall

Art on offer - Margarita Lemann’s Blue Serenity

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SOCIAL enterprise dot-art have celebrated two decades of art and creativity.

Artists, supporters, friends, staff and board members past and present joined together at the Music Room at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall to mark 20 years since the social enterprise was founded.

The evening also saw the premiere of a film produced by James Murphy, the very first winner of the dot-art Schools programme back in 2013, who has since gone on to build a career as a creative professional.

Lucy Byrne, dot-art’s founder and Managing Director, said: “Our artists are at the heart of everything we do.

“Their talent, tenacity and trust have allowed us to build an organisation that refuses to let art be sidelined.”

Something to treasure - dot-art founder Lucy Byrne (right) and sister Sophie Byrne at the 20th anniversary celebration

More than Toffees on menu Cordon Blues - Domingo’s Bar & Grill

THE city is set to welcome a new premium dining experience this summer, as Hill Dickinson Stadium opens Domingo’s Bar & Grill to the public on selected nonmatchdays.

Located within Everton’s waterfront home, the restaurant will be open on Saturday evenings

and Sundays throughout June and July.

Paying homage to St Domingo’s FC – the original name of Everton FC when it was founded in 1878 – the restaurant sits within the West Stand and will be open to all, with no Everton or stadium membership required.

Aaron Duckmanton, Chief Revenue Officer at Everton, said: “A key part of our vision for the stadium is how it can be used beyond matchdays - creating opportunities for people to experience it in different ways.”

Visit hilldickinsonstadium.com/ domingos

Summer 2026

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Hungry for more - Restaurants such as Sapporo Teppanyaki (below) took part in the biggest-ever Liverpool Restaurant Week

Biggest-ever Restaurant Week brings in the crowds THIS year’s Liverpool Restaurant Week has been declared the most successful in the event’s history.

The nine-day celebration of the city’s food and hospitality scene, which ran from 18 to 26 April, drew bumper crowds to restaurants across the city centre, with diners snapping up exclusive offers ranging from £5 quick bites to £35 premium experiences.

Katie Bentley, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communications at Liverpool Business Improvement District, which organises the event, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with how this year’s Restaurant Week has gone, it’s been our most successful yet, and that’s down to the incredible passion of our hospitality businesses and the brilliant response from the people of Liverpool,” she said.

“The buzz across the city centre was something really special. Venues were full, the Foodie Passport was flying

off the shelves, and we saw diners exploring places they’d never tried before.

This year’s event featured offers across fine dining, family-friendly, veggie and vegan, halal, allergyfriendly and dog-friendly venues.

Diners tucked into £5 pastries and coffees at Core Coffee and Voyagers, £15 two-course lunches at Albert’s Schloss and Bistro Pierre, £25 dinners at The Municipal and Neighbourhood, and £35 Bavarian Feasts and Sapporo Teppanyaki sittings for those marking a special night out.

The Foodie Passport also made a return, with diners collecting stamps at participating venues for the chance to win a meal out every week for a year.

Restaurant Week forms part of Liverpool Business Improvement District’s wider work to support the city’s hospitality sector.

Further details on the 2027 events are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Another round!

Gusto cocktail

LIVERPOOL Cocktail Week returns for the week starting October 9.

Following the success of May’s 10-day event, which saw thousands of visitors to nearly 60 venues across the city, Alice Christison, director of organisers M-ad

Agency, said: “The city delivered once again. Top venues, delicious drinks and the best deals are always top of the list.”

For more information on and to purchase tickets visit liverpoolcocktailweek. co.uk

Follow @LiverpoolBIDCompany and visit liverpoolbidcompany.com