Liverpool City Region among UK's top investment destinations, says study

The Liverpool City Region is one of the UK’s top four growth hot spots, according to new data.

A report from global design and infrastructure consultancy Arcadis placed Liverpool ahead of Manchester and London as an investment destination, behind only Edinburgh, Oxford and Cambridge.

The research analysed the growth prospects of 24 leading urban economies in the UK, measuring growth potential against the six key pillars of workforce and skills, infrastructure, business environment, place, city brand and housing.

City brand, infrastructure, positive business environment and quality and affordability of housing were recognised among the Liverpool City Region’s strengths.

Commenting on the findings, Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “This is an encouraging report but in a sense it tells what we already know.

“External validation is always useful and helps to signal to UK and international investors the huge opportunities that exist within the city and wider City Region.”

He added: “Devolution gives us a huge opportunity to realise that potential by prioritising the areas identified in this report. Our focus on skills, renewable energy, digital connectivity, transport and housing will further increase our attractiveness as an investment destination.”

Mark Basnett, managing director of the Liverpool City Region LEP, said: “Liverpool City Region is increasingly being recognised as a dynamic, outward-looking international city region and reports that highlight our attractiveness for inward investment are always welcome.

“Going forward, we are working to continue to attract such investment through the establishment of a comprehensive business-led Internationalisation Strategy for the City Region.”

He continued: “This strategy will build on our globally competitive sector strengths and capabilities and our capacity for innovation that will ultimately increase trade and attract talent, visitors and investment from key global markets.”

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