Liverpool receives cruise tourism boost

Government officials have confirmed cruise vessels will be allowed to begin and end their voyages in Liverpool. At present cruise liners are only permitted to make ‘stop off’ visits to the city. The upgrading of the Pier Head facility in the city is dependant on Liverpool City Council repaying £8.8 million in grant aid which it was given for the current stop-off terminal. Liverpool was allowed to build a cruise terminal in 2007 with public funding on the proviso that it was only used for stop-offs, not turnarounds. Work began in March on a temporary baggage and customs building at the Pier Head, and Transport Secretary Mike Penning has now given his approval to the status change. Final removal of the grant condition by DCLG will be dependent on securing State Aid clearance from the European Commission, which will now be sought. The Department of Transport will assist in that process.