Back to index of Nerve 8 - Spring 2006

Picket Set to Fly

By Phil Hayes

The Picket has just been offered a lease on premises near the River Mersey, in an area that is becoming known as 'the Independents District'. It's a good location with great access, but it's not ideal.

I have secured funding from the National Foundation for Youth Music for the 'dry bar' gigs we organise for people aged under eighteen. We have also received an offer of a grant from the Arts Council of England for project funding to support a programme of events for local bands and musicians.

City Councillors tell me they are keen to see the Picket survive and have offered their full support to establishing the Picket in the Independents District. They are also interested in the idea of developing the area as a cultural district.

I am hopeful that the Picket will not only survive in its new location but will become an important part of Liverpool's cultural scene up to and beyond 2008. I also believe we can play a major role in developing the Independents District for other indigenous cultural organisations, many of which are desperate to secure affordable premises in Liverpool City Centre.