The research assesses the way that Liverpool Vision has operated as an urban regeneration company and the contribution that it has made and is likely to make to the regeneration of Liverpool city centre. The rationale for its establishment is considered in the light of changes that have taken place since 1999. Liverpool Vision’s objectives and the functions and structures adopted to achieve them are described. The research focuses on Liverpool Vision’s activities and functions and how they add value to various projects. It addresses the relationship between the organisation and its public and private sector partners.  Presents a quantitative analysis of the impacts of Liverpool Vision’s City Centre Programme and considers whether the company represents value for money.

The role of urban regeneration companies is to produce a vision for their area and then co-ordinate the implementation of this vision. Liverpool Vision Ltd commissioned SQW Limited to examine how well it has fulfilled this role since its establishment in 1999. Liverpool Vision was one of three pilot URCs established to improve the co-ordination of regeneration activity within focused geographic areas.

The research was carried out between February and October 2005. It is primarily based on consultations with representatives from Liverpool Vision, its partner agencies, private sector developers, and local business and community representatives. Further evidence was gathered from more detailed research into six projects that have been influenced by Liverpool Vision. In addition, the research analyses data on changing conditions in Liverpool city centre, and looks at documentation relating to Liverpool Vision and its partners’ activities.

It is concluded that Liverpool Vision has provided a strategic focus for the work and funding of its partners and has effectively facilitated the development of regeneration projects. The research suggests that other agencies in the city working alone would not have been as successful as Liverpool Vision has in securing additional public sector funding. Liverpool Vision has been particularly successful in project development. Problems exist with aspects of leadership and stakeholder awareness, but overall the urban regeneration company has proved to be effective and good value for money.

Liverpool Vision Ltd
Phone: +44 151 707 8007
regenerate@liverpoolvision.co.uk

01/12/2005

SQW Limited

research

Urban Policy