In a lively episode of The RICS Podcast, one of our surveyors from our Liverpool office, Gabriel Davies MRICS, and Hannah Daly MRICS from SES Engineering Services, come together to explore the heart of Liverpool City Region with Mayor Steve Rotheram. Their conversation touches on placemaking, infrastructure, local skills, and heritage—key elements that will shape the city’s future.
As the Mayor of Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram brings a unique perspective. His experience in the built environment informs his vision for the area. From bricklaying in the late '70s to leading a thriving region, Steve’s journey reflects Liverpool’s resilience and dynamism.
Steve emphasises the importance of placemaking. It’s not just about erecting buildings; it’s about creating vibrant spaces where people thrive. The proposed Liverpool-Manchester railway promises economic growth, connecting great cities and opening job opportunities.
Gabriel reiterated the importance of placemaking, he said: “We need to have a place-based approach to harness existing places to drive economic growth from places that already exist. Young people must continue to be brought into the profession, not just through graduate schemes but also through other pathways such as apprenticeship schemes.”
Hannah Daly, a Site Surveyor at SES Engineering Services, also adds her insights. With seven years in the industry, she sees progress toward diversity and inclusivity. She said: “The industry is becoming more diverse and inclusive; it’s heading in the right direction but there is still a long way to go.”
Steve added: “I would like to see a lot more women joining the industry, lots has been done to make it more attractive. It’s a slow progress but it is a long way off trying to be equitable – we need to accelerate this progress.
“Liverpool’s universities produce talented graduates but retaining them remains a challenge. The city’s heritage, its many old buildings, can be revitalised, preserving history while meeting modern needs.”
Liverpool is a place to invest, a hub for the Built Environment. The mayor’s plans align with health, well-being, and sustainability. As Liverpool evolves, it beckons businesses and professionals alike.
Listen to the full RICS podcast episode here.
