54 St James Street was developed as part of the ‘WICED’ project to create a Women’s International Centre for Economic Development. The project incorporated the creation of the business centre along with an international research hub around women’s economic development.
WICED was recently featured in Department for Communities and Local Government’s Supporting Local Government report as one of four North West Projects that have successfully impacted the local economy thanks to ERDF funding. Since development in 2010, 54 St James Street has helped to create over 1000 new businesses, created over 2000 new jobs, been a physical home to over 200 businesses.
54 St James Street is one of the major stakeholders that played a pivotal role in the regeneration of the Baltic Triangle and is a catalyst for the ongoing development of the area, which is now a key enterprise support zone. The historical city central area is one of Liverpool’s fastest-growing districts and is home to many social, digital and creative businesses.
George Garrett, Merchant Seaman, writer, playwright and founder member of Liverpool’s Unity Theatre, was a radical activist who has been described a ‘one of the most significant working class writers of his generation’. George lived, among other places throughout his life at 52a St James Street. 54 St James Street now homes a memorable construction of George Garrett on behalf of Writing on the Wall and Heritage Lottery Fund to celebrate and preserve his legacy. Click here to read more about George Garrett’s story.