An ambitious public-private sector initiative will unlock significant real estate and capital investment opportunities for private sector partners to boost the dynamic transformation of the Liverpool City Region, driving a new era of economic growth.

That powerful message was the cornerstone of a Liverpool City Region Combined Authority event held at The Venue at the Royal Liver Building, where attendees were told the area was on the cusp of groundbreaking innovation and huge prosperity.

Mayor Steve Rotheram.

Alongside details of the Liverpool City Region Real Estate & Capital Investment Programme, investors, business leaders and developers learned of a unique opportunity to collaborate and engage with peers at major industry events – MIPIM 2025 in Cannes and UKREiiF 2025 in Leeds.

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Mayor Steve Rotheram said unprecedented demand across various real estate sectors had been driven by technological advancement, a robust commitment to sustainable development, and strategic infrastructure investments:

“This programme will highlight these opportunities, inviting the private sector to join in the region’s dynamic transformation and become part of its growth story,” he said, pointing to significant potential for investors to capitalise on many worthwhile projects.

“The Liverpool City Region stands at the cutting edge of innovation, particularly in sectors like Health and Life Sciences and our real estate market reflects this transformative period.

“We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how space is used with the integration of smart technologies and sustainable design principles, whilst our Freeport status is stimulating development across the region, providing unique opportunities and incentives in logistics and manufacturing.

“Our waterfront is transforming into a thriving ecosystem where commerce, culture, and community come together. And the Freeport is helping us put the Liverpool City Region on the global map for trade and investment.”

He added: “Together, we can build a sustainable, innovative, and prosperous future.”

Health and Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing, Creative and Digital, Maritime, and Net Zero are driving growth and reshaping the real estate landscape.

These sectors are also creating demand for diverse spaces – from office and residential developments to research facilities and mixed-use areas that integrate digital infrastructure, smart building technologies, and sustainable design principles.

The Mayor said there was no better time for the private sector to get involved.

“Our innovative projects, bold ambitions and world-class talent make us a compelling destination for investment. The opportunities are vast and diverse, ranging from major regeneration projects and green infrastructure initiatives to the creation of cutting-edge digital spaces and life sciences hubs,” he said.

“Now, we need the expertise, resources and vision of the private sector to help us achieve our goals.

“The time to act is now – let’s build the future of the Liverpool City Region together.”

A joint statement on behalf of the six local authorities – Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, and Wirral – said they were committed to working alongside private sector partners to realise the full potential of the region’s real estate and investment opportunities:

“As leaders of the Liverpool City Region’s local authorities, we are united in our vision for a sustainable, innovative, and prosperous future.”

“The Real Estate & Capital Investment Programme is central to our strategy for creating vibrant communities and a thriving economy.

“We invite private sector partners to join us in realising this vision – through strategic investment, collaboration, and innovation.

“Together, we will transform our region and make it a beacon of opportunity on the global stage.”

Liverpool City Region – which is committed to achieving net-zero by 2035 – is pioneering green infrastructure projects, integrating renewable energy into real estate developments and offering green financing mechanisms to drive sustainable construction.

Meanwhile, the region’s transport infrastructure is undergoing a revolutionary upgrade, with a new rail station, a £500m fleet of trains with battery-powered trains, enhanced ferry services and an integrated bus network opening new development corridors, connecting businesses and people.

A standout example of the region’s economic dynamism is the Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which is set to attract £800 million in public and private investment.

With 21 transformative projects, the initiative will generate 8,000 new jobs and drive demand for specialised real estate – from laboratory spaces to research facilities.

Dave Dargan, CEO of Starship Group, said there were exciting times ahead.

“The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority exemplifies the bold vision and collaboration needed to drive change across the city, especially in tackling the critical challenge of housing.

“From cutting-edge life sciences and digital infrastructure to sustainable housing and world-class waterfront developments, the opportunities here are vast. At Starship, we are committed to innovation and sustainability helping  address the growing demand for modern, affordable, and energy-efficient homes.

“The City Region’s forward-thinking initiatives offer opportunities to reimagine housing – integrating smart technologies, sustainable design, and community-focused solutions.”

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Chief Executive Katherine Fairclough

Closing the event, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Chief Executive, Katherine Fairclough, told assembled business leaders and other stakeholders:

“Our offer is that when you work with us, invest in the region or set-up a new business, you’re welcomed into an ecosystem of some of the most influential institutions in the world.

“We have clusters of economic opportunity that put us in pole position to grow as a region. These clusters, converging with our world leading innovation assets on our doorstep, and stable and strong leadership and partnerships, put us in a golden position to grow.  And our plans for growth will make the Liverpool City Region the best place to grow up, grow a family, and grow a business.”

With a strategic focus on infectious disease research, digital health, and AI-driven drug discovery, the Life Sciences Innovation Zone offers a compelling opportunity for investors to be part of the next generation of medical breakthroughs.

Digital connectivity is a pillar of the region’s investment proposition. The completion of the LCR Connect ultrafast network has helped to deploy 5G, supporting IoT applications and ensuring that the region’s real estate assets remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.

The region’s universities are also a critical engine for growth, providing a steady pipeline of skilled graduates in key sectors like materials science, digital innovation and sustainable technologies.

These academic institutions are fostering strong collaborations with industry, creating clusters of excellence that are driving investment and shaping the region’s future.

And, with an ambitious goal of delivering nearly 8,000 new homes each year, exists substantial opportunities for residential investment across a variety of accommodation types. This combined with a vibrant cultural scene and an high quality of life, ensures the region remains an increasingly appealing destination for all.