From eupolitix.com...
Special report: Liverpool’s long and winding road

Liverpool has put its heart and soul into preparing to be European city of culture in 2008.

The “greatest day in Liverpool’s recent history” came quite unexpectedly, on June 4 2003. The announcement that the Merseyside city will be the UK’s European capital of culture in 2008 was considered the key to unlocking a regional renaissance.

Locals hope the standing will allow Liverpool to transform its image from gloomy northern city to major European player. According to some estimations the cultural status will generate at least £2bn in investment, 14,000 new jobs and 1.7 million extra tourists.

“2008 is the rocket fuel for Liverpool’s economy,” Mike Storey, deputy chairman of the Liverpool culture company declared. “June 4 2003 changed Liverpool. At a stroke, national and international perceptions changed and the image of the city improved. Solid foundations have now been laid for Liverpool’s ongoing transformation into a world-class city.”

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