Notes from 'Kenny'

I'm currently sat in a porta-cabin, in the middle of a builder's yard, in the middle of Kensington - central Liverpool. It's one of Liverpool's 'forgotten developments' from the European Capital of Culture festivities. Everywhere you look, there are promises of future development. Billboards are adorned with catchphrases like Deliverington, Developington, Enhancington; and the Kensington Regeneration fund has generated job opportunities, along with, new educational and social infrastructures that assist the local community. However, this development was rarely mentioned during the cultural activities of 2008. Emphasis was placed on artistic and media friendly events that promoted and encouraged development of city business rather than the many communities within Liverpool. Don't get me wrong, the Capital of Culture was an event to be proud of and, I'm sure, heightened Liverpool's cultural and economic profile. But did it alleviate the social and economic burdens within Liverpool's poorer districts?

I can't answer that question, as I live on the periphery, and only look in on Liverpool during my working week. It is people like me, who commute in and out of the city and conduct business therein, that have gained the most from 2008. More concentrated effort needs to be focused on the social rather than the cultural. Once local communities have been lifted from depravity, then it is the time to re-focus and celebrate Liverpool's achievements and vast cultural wealth. Maybe Kensington is the start? Let's hope so..

Phil (2nd generation scouser or what is colloquially known as a 'woolly back'.)


For more info:
http://www.kensingtonregeneration.com/