This bonus episode features a 12-minute excerpt from a 2021 interview with Professor Michael Parkinson, renowned for his work on urban regeneration, particularly in Liverpool. He discusses Liverpool's transformation from a city on the brink of collapse in the 1980s to one experiencing a significant Renaissance. He is interviewed by the late author and Guardian journalist, Henry McDonald.

Key factors for this recovery include:

• A shift in local leadership and collaboration between the private and public sectors.
• Substantial investment from the European Union and key private investors like the Duke of Westminster.
• The success of initiatives such as Liverpool One and the European Capital of Culture in 2008.
• Ongoing challenges in economic and social issues, particularly in neglected areas like North Liverpool.
• Exciting new developments, including Everton FC's plans for a sustainable stadium at Bramley Moore Dock, aiming to revitalize the city’s northern waterfront.

1. On Liverpool's Transformation:

   • “Liverpool went from this culture of failure to a culture of success.”
   • “Europe took a risk and invested in Liverpool when national government wouldn’t.”

2. On Collaboration and Leadership:

   • “30 years ago, the private and public sectors were at odds. That’s changed. Now we have much more of a partnership approach.”
   • “The Labour government’s investment in cities, along with local leadership, helped reposition Liverpool.”

3. On European Influence:

   • “European money in the 1990s made the difference between Liverpool collapsing and recovering – €1.4 billion over 10 years.”

4. On Everton’s Stadium Development:

   • “It would transform the worst part of the waterfront… and tie that part of the city back into the city center.”
   • “This project is hugely symbolic, culturally significant, and exciting.”

5. On Liverpool’s Resilience:

   • “It had a very good boom and quite a decent bust. Liverpool didn’t go as far backwards during austerity as it could have.”

6. On the Waterfront:

   • “The river made Liverpool the richest city in the greatest empire outside of London. And for 30 years, Liverpool turned its back to it.”

7. Closing Reflection:

   • “Liverpool is the pool of life. It makes to live.” – Carl Jung.

These quotes and insights highlight Liverpool's unique journey of urban regeneration and the blend of local, national, and European efforts that fueled its recovery.