Claire McColgan takes a regional role, expanding her cultural influence.
- Liverpool City Region and City Council share Director of Culture position.
- Claire McColgan aims to leverage culture for regional regeneration.
- New role focuses on enhancing the visitor economy over five years.
- Strategic collaboration with cultural organizations set to unfold.
Claire McColgan’s new regional role signifies a strategic shift in the cultural landscape of the Liverpool City Region. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Liverpool City Council have partnered, allowing McColgan to extend her influence as Director of Culture across the entire region. Her appointment is seen as pivotal in tapping into the vast cultural potential of the area.
McColgan, reflecting on the past two decades, highlighted Liverpool’s evolution into a prominent cultural destination. “Over the last 20 years, Liverpool has become one of the must-visit destinations in Europe,” she stated. Her leadership in cultural initiatives, such as the European Capital of Culture bid in 2001, has contributed significantly to the city’s cultural renaissance.
The expanded role positions McColgan to spearhead a new events and content strategy, in coordination with local teams and organizations. This strategy is crafted to boost both the culture and visitor economy in the next five years, making use of the region’s rich cultural assets. The Local Visitor Economy Partnership, led by Lord Tony Hall, aligns perfectly with these goals.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, praised the appointment, noting McColgan’s influence in enhancing cultural offerings for international and UK visitors. He emphasized that her leadership would invigorate the Liverpool City Region’s cultural and creative sectors, thereby strengthening its visitor economy and enriching resident experience.
Liverpool City Council Leader, Councillor Liam Robinson, expressed confidence in McColgan’s expanded portfolio, pointing out her substantial contributions to Liverpool’s cultural identity. Her efforts include orchestrating high-profile events and nurturing cultural institutions, which have become integral to the city’s attractiveness and economic growth.
Claire McColgan’s expanded role promises to fortify the Liverpool City Region’s cultural and economic landscape.
