Liverpool Council urged to ditch World Heritage status

There are calls for Liverpool City Council to hand back the city's World Heritage status after the landmark vote over Everton's new stadium.

Yesterday, planning bosses gave their full backing to the development at Bramley Moore Dock, despite Historic England objecting saying it could harm the city's identity.

It's hoped, if approved by the Housing Secretary, the build would encourage more investment around the docklands.

But Frank McKenna, CEO of Downtown in Business, thinks the time is right move away from UNESCO :

"The sensible thing for the city council and decision makers would be to say to UNESCO thanks for that badge but no thanks.

"Hand it back and let's get on with not just the stadium but the many other developments that can now shape the future of the city of Liverpool."

"It's done little for the visitor economy but has done a lot to damage potential investors of the past.

"Hopefully it'll be something we can utilise in the future and without that baggage I think we will be a much more attractive proposition for those who want to come in and create jobs, create wealth and develop our economy."

Everton say they're committed to spending £55m in preserving and celebrating the heritage of the waterfront.