A new branded ‘Rainbow Taxi Rank’, improved signage and CCTV are part of the latest wave of safety improvements across the city centre.

Merseyside Police, working with LCR Pride Foundation and Liverpool City Council, have introduced a number of new interventions in the city’s Pride Quarter to support safety during the day and night time economy. It comes after Liverpool recently secured the prestigious Purple Flag status for a 14th successive year.

The programme of work will introduce the UK’s first ever designated ‘rainbow taxi rank’ to the heart of the Pride Quarter. Bespoke signage featuring LGBT+ inclusive symbols will also be displayed on bins and lampposts while additional upgrades will be made to the area’s CCTV network and lighting. The initiative is complemented by increased engagement with the community and delivery partners as well as dedicated policing presence in the night time economy.

As part of ongoing efforts with partners to reduce criminal activity and serious violence in the area, Merseyside Police applied for funding from the Home Office which has helped pay for the safety improvements. Sergeant Craig Winstanley from the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing team has worked closely on the project alongside LCR Pride Foundation and Liverpool City Council.

Sergeant Craig Winstanley from Merseyside Police said: “We want residents and visitors to Liverpool’s vibrant Pride Quarter to feel safe at all times, so we are proud to be working in partnership with Liverpool City Council and LCR Pride Foundation to implement these new measures. Following a successful funding bid, the new taxi rank and safety measures will support the city’s day and night-time economy and play a part in making the area a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.

“Criminal activity and serious violence will not be tolerated, and we take every report very seriously. These new measures, alongside our regular walkabouts and visible hotspot patrols in the area, aim to provide reassurance to members of the public and prevent crime.”

Andi Herring, CEO of LCR Pride Foundation, said: “The Pride Quarter is a safe place for our region’s LGBT+ community and allies and it’s vital that people can feel that sense of security when visiting or passing through the area. Preventing serious crime, violence and in particular where these are motivated by hate, is something that must be prioritised in areas where people may feel vulnerable at night. Working alongside Merseyside Police this scheme is just the latest initiative that sends a clear message we take this seriously in our region.”

The scheme’s installation and maintenance has also been supported by the Liverpool BID Company on behalf of their levy paying businesses in the city centre.