THE repositioning of downtown Liverpool as a cultural hub has taken yet another turn with plans revealed for an open air theatre in Exchange Flags.
This time big business is leading the way with Capital Properties, the public realm manager behind Spinningfields in Manchester and the Waterfront Festival in Leeds, appointed to bring the square to life.
It will focus its efforts on plays and history tours using the World War II Western Approaches museum which it plans to relaunch as a major tourist attraction.
Touring theatre company Chapterhouse will perform The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes, Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, and the Jungle Book. It is hoped the events will drive local residents to the area, encourage footfall, and increase “dwell time”.
The courtyard, flanked by the columned porticos of Horton House and Walker House, will also provide opportunities for community events, operated by the specialist property advisory firm’s so-called placemaking arm, Capital Life.
Mark Burgess, managing director of Capital Properties, comments: “Placemaking is about emphasising the best aspects of an area or a community asset and turning it into an attractive destination that people will go out of their way to visit. Our creative ideas for using the public realm will complement the refurbished Grade-A office space and the people who work inside, but will also appeal to those on the fringes.
“With an ongoing calendar of community events and exhibitions, we hope to make the most of its excellent location, outdoor space, heritage and creative spirit. Liverpool already enjoys a high-standing with more museums and galleries than any other UK city outside of London, and our placemaking events will look to create a distinct quarter within this broad identity.”
The many empty floors and spaces in nearby office block 8 Water Street were last year handed over to artists and creative groups. Last week it was announced that a former magistrates courtroom in Victoria Street was to become a cinema.
Exchange Flags' food and drink presence is also set to go up a notch: Fazenda, Philpotts, Gourmet Coffee and The Juicery will be joined by the Steven Gerrard-backed Vincent Cafe and Cocktail Bar in May.
The events programme is supported by a new website.
