Operator of the Echo Arena, BT Convention Centre and Exhibition Centre Liverpool says forthcoming events at the three venues will go ahead as planned. Tony McDonough reports

Events at the Echo Arena, BT Convention Centre, Echo Arena and Exhibition Centre Liverpool will go ahead as planned despite the devastating fire at the multi-storey car park.

Fire broke out at the car park on New Year’s Eve destroying more than 1,300 vehicles.

The final performance of the Liverpool International Horse Show, which was due to take place in the evening in the arena was cancelled.  All people and horses were safe and secure.

Fast and Furious Live preview performances will take place at Echo Arena this Thursday and Friday, January 11 and 12, followed by Celebrating Sgt Pepper: Live on January 13.

Bob Prattey, chief executive of The ACC Liverpool Group, said: “We can confirm that our future events will be able to proceed as planned following the serious fire which was contained in the Liverpool Waterfront Car Park on New Year’s Eve.

“We will continue to communicate with all our clients who are organising forthcoming conferences, exhibitions and entertainment events as well as customers and delegates.  We ask for everyone’s patience and understanding while we work through these plans.

“The Liverpool Waterfront Car Park is closed until further notice and so as part of our contingency plans we are looking at alternative parking arrangements for forthcoming events.

“We are extremely thankful to the emergency services for their efforts. We would also like to thank the people who kindly provided transport for customers to enable them to travel home, as well as Liverpool City Council for establishing a relief centre for those needing shelter.”