Liverpool Chinatown revamp plan consultation opens

The Imperial Arch paifang on Nelson Street is the largest multiple-span arch of its kind outside China

A plan to revamp and improve Liverpool's 200-year-old Chinatown has been put out for public consultation.

The city-centre neighbourhood has seen declining fortunes in recent years with reduced footfall - partly attributed to the effects of the pandemic - and stalled developments.

Liverpool City Council said it hoped planned improvements, including a centrepiece of two stone lions donated by the Chinese Consulate General in Manchester, would increase visitor numbers.

The council will host a community information event at The Black-E event centre on Great George Street between 10:00 and 15:00 GMT.

An artist's impression of how the scheme will look

Planned work also includes providing better pedestrian access, making improvements to a children's playground, and creating a commemorative memorial garden.

There will also be a red maple wishing tree and a flower mat near the two lions.

Ming Wang, secretary general of the Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, said: "We look forward to witnessing the transformation of our beloved Chinatown, more footfall to Chinatown, followed by better business, more investment and more visitors from around the world."

'Something really special'

The plans were developed in conjunction with local community groups and the University of Liverpool's Architecture School.

The council said the scheme would complement wider plans for a revitalised Chinatown which include new homes and businesses on a previously stalled site at Great George Street.

The site was recently taken under council ownership, with support from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the government.

Councillor Nick Small, cabinet member for economy and growth, said: "We're asking local people and businesses to have their say on the ideas that have been developed and input into the design process, so that we can create something that is really special."