Ongoing unrest on Liverpool’s streets hits BID Company’s programme

The social unrest following last week’s tragic events in Southport have thrown Liverpool BID Company’s events programme into turmoil.

The organisation, which represents more than 800 levy-paying businesses in Liverpool city centre, was forced to postpone its Celebrating Castle Street event last Sunday when hundreds of protesters clashed near the Pier Head and in the city centre the day before.

An anti-fascist march was confronted by far right supporters, resulting in scuffles, and attacks on several businesses in the city’s Church Street main shopping area.

Now, Liverpool BID Company, has taken the decision to postpone its Celebrating Bold Street event this coming Sunday.

Both events have, in the past, formed part of the BID Company’s destination marketing strategy, creating quality, public events that aim to profile keys areas and businesses within the BID to drive an increase in footfall, sales and repeat visits.

However, BID Company CEO, Bill Addy, said this afternoon (August 5): “Liverpool is a vibrant and diverse city. It’s important we say that because we cannot allow violence to undo and undermine the work that has been done to build and regenerate a city.

“The modern Liverpool is the culmination of a lot of work by many different partners. It is the result of vision, investment confidence and hard work.”

He added: “We have made the decision to postpone Celebrating Bold Street this coming weekend, after we took the decision on Saturday to postpone Celebrating Castle Street.

“After speaking to our businesses we feel this is the sensible course of action. The city centre is a place for everyone to enjoy, but we feel it is prudent as the situation remains unpredictable.

“At Liverpool BID Company we have always said our work is about making this a city where everyone can thrive, be they resident, business, visitor or tourist.

“The resilience of our city centre businesses in the face of violence and threats cannot be understated. Our businesses showed real love and strength in protecting their customers and staff. The truth is they shouldn’t have to show such strength and be so concerned about their staff and customers. This shouldn’t happen.”

He called for cooperation to ensure the safety of the city’s businesses and citizens: “What do we need to do in the coming days, weeks and months? We need a frank conversation about what happened on Saturday and why both businesses, shoppers and visitors of all ages were subject to a dangerous situation.

“Criminal and violent activity on this scale should not be something our city has to tolerate.

“As a voice for, and a partner with those who have businesses and organisations within the city centre, it is so important to make sure we can communicate quickly and effectively. We will push forward with the city partners, Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council to provide regular and clear communication, ensuring our city can run as openly and safely as possible.

“We have come through difficult times together before. All we know is how to work together, and that is what we will continue to do.”