Liverpool’s ‘plan B’ is vital to city economy

Liverpool City Council’s bid to secure new funding for secondary schools is vital for the future economic prosperity of the city, according to Liverpool Vision’s chief executive Max Steinberg. Speaking to Insider, he said restarting schemes scrapped under the £350m Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme would help to “spearhead the future of economic regeneration” in Liverpool. He also refused to rule out the prospect of resuming all 25 cancelled BSF projects.

Stobart agrees Aer Arann deal

Stobart Group has agreed terms for a five-year operating agreement with Aer Arann to use London Southend Airport for flights starting in March 2011. As part of the deal, Carlisle-headquartered Stobart will invest €2.5m in the business which is in examinership – a process in Ireland that allows a company to restructure with the approval of the High Court.

Wirral Council makes staff cuts

Wirral Council has outlined measures to reduce staff levels to meet its £108m savings target in the next four years. Staff aged over 55 are being offered early retirement, while severance packages will be available for others.

HRS wins Gatwick brief

Human Recognition Systems (HRS), a Merseyside provider of biometric and identity management technology, has secured a new contract with Gatwick Airport. The company will conduct a series of technology trials of existing and future airport security operations.

Ph Creative adds to its team

Digital marketing agency Ph Creative has recruited three new members following a series of client wins. It is also on the look out for further recruits.

Bribery Act creates cause for concern

Businesses raised concerns over how the new Bribery Act could affect them at Insider's breakfast on anti-bribery legislation. There were particular questions relating to how it will affect the giving of hospitality and gifts while Richard Smyth, partner at DLA Piper, said: "There has to be compliance."

42 Under 42 unveiled

Insider has unveiled this year's North West 42 Under 42, the definitive list of the region's up-and-coming entrepreneurs and business people. The list is also now online, featuring exclusive interviews with the next generation of big hitters from across the North West.

Output growth increases, finds survey

Companies in the region have raised activity levels for the 17th consecutive month, according to new data published today. Growth of incoming new work to the North West private sector accelerated in September for the first time since February.

EY: Profit warnings low, but difficult times ahead

The number of profit warnings has remained low in the North West during the third quarter with only five issued by quoted companies, according to a report by Ernst & Young (EY).

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Green light for Ellesmere Port arena

Cheshire West and Chester's (CWAC) executive has approved proposals for a new sports and events arena in Ellesmere Port. The £10.8m development is to replace the aging EPIC Centre.

Talking Point: What’s the story from the Blair Lite Tory?

Frank McKenna, founder of Downtown in Business, went to the Conservative Party conference last week... and was underwhelmed. Find out why.

Tague on Tour: A European story to tell

Neil Tague has been casting his eye over the Cushman & Wakefield European Cities Monitor, in which Manchester saw some improvement. But what next for the city?

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