Liverpool City Region Charts Course for Growth Amid Record Economic Performance
LIVERPOOL, 28 January 2026 – The Liverpool City Region is entering 2026 on a wave of economic momentum, marked by record-breaking retail performance, significant public investment, and a bold new strategy for cultural and business events. This comes as the region grapples with the dual challenges of rapid gentrification and sustaining its unique character.
Record-Breaking “Golden Quarter” and Economic Fundamentals
The Liverpool ONE shopping complex has reported a historic ‘Golden Quarter’ performance between Christmas Day and the New Year, with year-on-year footfall surging by 15% and sales skyrocketing 36%. This outperformed national benchmarks and signals robust consumer confidence in the city centre. The region’s broader economic credentials are being reinforced by Liverpool John Lennon Airport, which recorded a new annual passenger record of 5.6 million travellers. Business leaders, speaking at a recent Invest North roundtable, affirmed that the city region’s “economic fundamentals are now in place,” setting the stage for converting strategic strengths into tangible delivery.
Key Developments and Strategic Investments
| Sector | Latest Development |
|---|---|
| Retail & Tourism | Liverpool ONE’s Golden Quarter saw a 36% sales increase. The visitor economy is worth £6.2bn annually. |
| Transport | Franchised bus services launch across Liverpool, Wirral, and St Helens in 2026, reforming public transport. |
| Culture & Heritage | Liverpool Council welcomes a £1.5bn national investment in arts venues, museums, and libraries. |
| Business Support | New government package offers pubs a 15% business rates cut, with further relief worth £80-£100m a year. |
| Grassroots Music | A new lifeline scheme offers cash grants and support to struggling grassroots music venues. |
A City of Contrasts: Growth and Gentrification
Liverpool’s undeniable appeal—its culture, affordability, and investment potential—is creating significant social friction. Readers and analysts note that rising property prices, rapid gentrification, and student-heavy areas are pushing long-term residents out and diluting traditional community character. This is reflected in the property market, where the suburb of Anfield experienced the UK’s fourth-fastest asking price growth at 11% year-on-year. Conversely, the city also contends with areas of significant deprivation, with 53 of the UK’s most deprived neighbourhoods located within the Liverpool City Council area.
Cultural Calendar and “Must-See Month”
The region’s cultural strategy aims to attract and grow major events, with a packed calendar for 2026. Highlights include the return of Liverpool’s ‘Must-See Month’ this spring, a celebration of cultural attractions and arts. The annual international jazz festival is also set to be the biggest yet, and the Liverpool International Theatre Festival in October will showcase troupes from around the world. February alone promises a full programme of underground cinema, family festivals, and thought-provoking theatre across the city region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Liverpool ONE’s ‘Golden Quarter’ performance?
Between Christmas Day and New Year, Liverpool ONE reported a 15% increase in footfall and a remarkable 36% surge in sales compared to the previous year, setting a new record.
What major transport change is coming in 2026?
The Liverpool City Region will introduce a franchised bus system in 2026, taking control of routes and schedules across Liverpool, Wirral, and St Helens to improve service for residents and visitors.
Is Liverpool still an affordable city to live in?
While Liverpool remains more affordable than many UK cities, it is experiencing rapid price growth in certain areas like Anfield. Rising property costs and gentrification are noted as key concerns pushing some locals out.
What support is there for local culture and business?
Recent announcements include a £1.5bn national investment for heritage and arts venues, a new support package with rate cuts for pubs, and a grant scheme for grassroots music venues.