City consults on gay quarter vision
Planning advisor Feria Urbanism has been commissioned by Liverpool City Council to consult residents and businesses on plans to create a gay district around Stanley Street.
The area already has a strong night-time economy of bars and pubs which cater for the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community. But, the council said, it also has businesses and residential properties which also cater to the wider community.
Views are being gathered on how best this quarter can be developed to put it on a par with similar areas both in the UK and internationally.
The consultation will look at the physical aspects of the quarter, including its public realm, how it integrates with neighbouring areas and how it is marketed. It will also look at safety issues in the area.
Cllr Nick Small, cabinet member for employment and skills, said: "The area around Stanley Street has developed over time to be the city's gay quarter although there are many businesses there which cater for all communities.
"We want Liverpool to be known as an inclusive city. We have made strides in this in recent years and are being seen as a more gay friendly city than was the case a few years ago. The success of the Pride festival last year was evidence of that.
"We now need to look at how we can develop and promote the quarter. At a time of austerity that presents a real challenge but if we can have a quarter which is inclusive, dynamic and welcoming it can be a key economic driver for the city centre."
