A 'Hollywood of the North' is a dream that could soon become a reality, but it's a complex journey with many challenges. The former Littlewoods Pools site in Liverpool, a landmark Art Deco building, has been a topic of discussion since 2017, and its future is now a delicate balance.
Mayor Steve Rotheram has acknowledged that this ambitious project faces a "viability gap." He describes the site as a literal 'white elephant,' not just because of its color but also due to its 30-year vacancy.
"It's time to breathe new life into this space," Rotheram says, as Liverpool's political leaders prepare to present their vision to the government, hoping to secure £50 million to make this dream a reality.
In an interview with BBC Radio Merseyside, Rotheram suggested that borrowing funds could be a potential solution. He believes a "cocktail of funding" might be necessary, involving not only government support but also local contributions.
Rotheram has discussed the project with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, but he remains cautious, aware of similar studio plans elsewhere in the country that have fallen through. He raises the question: Does the absence of competition make Liverpool's project more viable, or is there an oversaturation of studio space?
The site's transformation began in December 2023, with planning permission granted in October 2024. The first structures to be built are two new 20,000 sq ft studio stages.
Built in 1938, the Littlewoods building was once the bustling headquarters of the Littlewoods Football Pools, with 16 million weekly players at its peak. Now, developer Capital & Centric (C&C) is in talks with the government about funding, but they've expressed concerns about the project's cost in the current economic climate.
Rotheram remains optimistic, believing there are alternative paths to success beyond government funding. He suggests exploring a mix of funding sources, including local contributions and potential loans.
"I'm hopeful we can find a solution. We must explore all options and not rely solely on one source of funding."
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the money. It's about the vision, the collaboration, and the potential impact on Liverpool's cultural landscape.
So, what do you think? Is this project a 'win-win' for Liverpool, or are there hidden challenges that could derail it? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
