About this blog

It's a momentous day for Liverpool because it's about looking forward", David Henshaw 4th June 2003.

Yes, but back in those early days how far did the city look?

It's 2009 and I am not really sure about the city's intentions for building on the legacy of what was a fantastic year of Culture.

Whilst making 2009 the year of the environment draws attention to what is undoubtedly a big issue, I can't help thinking that we're is missing a trick.

There's a sense of anticlimax. And that can't be good news.

The city needs to find a sense of purpose if it is to capitalise on its cultural status. It needs to continue to promote itself not just as a tourist destination but as a modern business-friendly city that expects and delivers nothing short of excellence.

Liverpool09 has been set up to explore how people feel about the legacy of 2008 and the task ahead.

This is an evolving project that looks forward, not to a particular target date but indefinitely. It will hopefully prove to be a focus for ongoing debate about progress.

Sometimes I find it difficult to articulate the passion I feel for Liverpool; to describe what I feel to be the unique essence that makes this seaport so special. I will therefore be inviting people to blog with me. Not just the usual high profile names but genuine enthusiasts whatever their background.

Who knows we might even help to get some direction into the promotion and development of Liverpool. I don't know what the site will look like in six months time. In fact I don't know what it will look like next Tuesday! But I hope you'll come back.