Sunday's event called off as 'situation remains unpredictable'
Celebrating Bold Street, the event honouring independents in the city centre, has been postponed due to the violence and disorder that took place in the city centre on Saturday (3 August).
Following the violence that blighted the city centre, which has been condemned as "shameful" and "completely unacceptable" by Merseyside Police, the decision was made to cancel the following day's event, Celebrating Castle Street.
Now its sister event on Bold Street, scheduled to take place on Sunday (11 August), has also been called off after organisers spoke with businesses and decided this was "the sensible course of action".
Liverpool BID Company, which organises the event, published a statement from CEO Bill Addy on Monday (5 August), which read: "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.
"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."
Addy went on to stress the need to address the events of the weekend and the importance of a united approach between the BID, Merseyside Police and Liverpool City Council.
He continued: "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."
For further information and updates, follow Liverpool BID Company on Instagram
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