Liverpool and Isle of Man sign historic cooperation agreement to boost visitor economy
Liverpool City Region and the Isle of Man have formalised their long-standing relationship with a comprehensive Cooperation Agreement aimed at boosting economic growth, tourism, and public services across both regions.
IOM Signing. l-r: Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson, Isle of Man Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram
The agreement, signed by Isle of Man Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, Liverpool, City Council Leader Liam Robinson, and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram, outlines collaborative efforts in six key areas: economic opportunities, tourism and cultural cooperation, transport connections, health services, infrastructure and sustainability, and education.
“This agreement marks an exciting new chapter in our relationship with Liverpool,” said Deborah Heather, Director of Tourism for Isle of Man. “By enhancing our transport links and promoting cross-regional tourism initiatives, we’re creating pathways for visitors to experience the unique cultural heritage of both destinations.”
Natalie Wyatt, Managing Director, Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership, emphasised the economic benefits of the partnership:
“This collaboration is a significant milestone for Liverpool City Region’s visitor economy. By coordinating our tourism strategies with the Isle of Man, we’re expanding our reach to international markets and creating sustainable year-round tourism opportunities. Our visitors will benefit from enriched experiences that showcase the distinctive character of both destinations.”
In 2024 Visit Isle of Man was pleased to welcome Claire McColgan of Liverpool City Council to its Non-Executive Board in 2024. Claire’s expansive background in destination making has proved invaluable.
The new partnership includes plans to develop joint tourism packages, coordinated marketing campaigns, and shared event calendars to maximise visitor numbers throughout the year. Tourism officials from both regions will collaborate on sustainable tourism practices and visitor management strategies to ensure long-term benefits for local communities.
The agreement will be supported by an annual conference alternating between Liverpool and the Isle of Man, with leadership from both regions regularly reviewing progress and identifying new opportunities for collaboration.
The agreement builds upon existing partnerships between the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce and the Isle of Man’s Department for Enterprise, with a renewed focus on improving sea and air connections between the regions.
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