Last week the city council announced a major events programme to mark the 10 years since Liverpool was European Capital of Culture taking place throughout this year. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool BID Company, which oversees the city’s retail and business districts, is to be an official sponsor of the Liverpool 2018 culture programme.

Last week the city council announced a major events programme to mark the 10 years since Liverpool was European Capital of Culture taking place throughout this year.

The agreement will throw the international spotlight on the BID areas and put BID levy payers located in and around Bold Street, Church Street, Williamson Square, Metquarter, Cavern Quarter, Castle Street and Old Hall Street at the heart of the action.

It is hoped the year-long celebration will boost footfall to the BID and increase revenue for businesses located there.

Events already announced that will directly involve the BID with added animation and spectacle include Chinese New Year (February 16-18), The Three Festivals Tall Ships Regatta (May 25-28) and Feast of Fire at St George’s (March 23-25 and March 30-April 2).

Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool BID Company, said: “It is our ambition that our levy payers feel the direct benefits from this extraordinary culture programme – and to showcase the rich cultural and leisure offer within the BID areas, including Church Street, Bold Street, Cavern Quarter and Castle Street.

“European Capital of Culture was a game-changer in the city’s long history and its impact is still being felt today.

“We now have an opportunity to create a new legacy for the city, and remind people – including the local community and visitors from outside the city region – just what a fantastic place Liverpool is.”

For more information on already released projects go to www.visitliverpool.com/2018.