Liverpool One has unlocked the Albert Dock

Jul 23 2008 by Barry Turnbull, Liverpool Daily Post

LIVERPOOL occupational enquiries are still relatively strong, despite the woes of the current economic climate.

Businesses which would have previously considered acquiring their own premises on a freehold basis 12 months ago, are now looking at leasehold opportunities.

This is particularly true for out-of-town developments, where enquiries have changed from SIPPs and purchases to leasehold or leasehold with an option to purchase.

This tightening of the financial markets, the subsequent slowing of the development pipeline, the rising cost of fuel and the effects of the new business rates are likely to help balance out the supply and demand.

The number of banks, which are willing to lend in the current climate has diminished.

A voice of authority, or collective of respected professionals needs to call the bottom of the market to enable businesses to plan for the future and allow them to regain confidence.

Thanks to a number of high quality developments, the city of Liverpool is well positioned to weather the storm.

Liverpool One has unlocked the Albert Dock and brought Mann Island and the rest of the Waterfront in from the cold, integrating it into the city’s core.

This area has been further bolstered by the hotels’ occupancy rates, with visitors coming to the Arena for both entertainment purposes and to use its conference facilities.

The Capital of Culture has also played a significant role and, as it draws into autumn, Liverpool will continue to benefit from the investment.