Shakespeare North driving £12.4m boost to Liverpool City Region economy

A new report has revealed the huge impact Shakespeare North Playhouse is having on the Liverpool City Region – bringing in millions for the local economy while helping to transform Prescot.

The independent evaluation shows the £38 million cultural venue has quickly become a major player in the region’s visitor economy since opening its doors in 2022.

Attracting around 100,000 visitors a year, the Playhouse is now generating £12.4 million annually through visitor spending across the city region – supporting local businesses, boosting footfall and helping to drive wider regeneration.

Backed by funding from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Knowsley Council and organisations including Arts Council England and National Lottery Heritage Fund, the landmark venue has exceeded expectations on jobs and economic growth.

The report, carried out by AMION Consulting, found the Playhouse supports 70 full-time equivalent jobs on site – well above original targets – alongside a further 60 jobs across the region through visitor spending.

It’s also delivering a £5.8 million annual boost to the Liverpool City Region’s economy, while its construction created hundreds of jobs and generated more than £15 million for the local economy.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said the venue is a clear example of how culture can drive real change.

He said: “Shakespeare North is a shining example of what can be achieved when we back our communities with real ambition and vision. It hasn’t just taken centre stage in Prescot’s revival – it’s helped breathe new life into the town centre, increased footfall and given local businesses a well-deserved boost, while generating millions for our visitor economy too.

“I’ve always believed that culture has the power to transform places for the better and there’s no better example than Shakespeare North. This is a story that’s only just begun.”

Delivered by Knowsley Council during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Playhouse has become a focal point for both culture and community in the borough.

Council Leader Graham Morgan said seeing the venue thrive after decades of planning is “overwhelming”, adding that its impact goes far beyond the stage.

The Playhouse itself features a 470-seat Jacobean theatre – the only one of its kind in the world – alongside education spaces, community facilities and an outdoor performance garden.

Chair Max Steinberg said the success shows what targeted investment can deliver, helping to drive footfall, support businesses and create jobs while restoring pride in the area.

Chief Executive and Creative Director Lisa Allen added the venue is already proving how powerful culture can be in transforming communities.

She said the Playhouse has become a true community hub, welcoming audiences of all ages – including many experiencing theatre for the first time – while helping to grow the region’s national and international profile.

The report also highlights strong community impact, with nearly 60% of visitors saying their trip improved their perception of Prescot.

Alongside its economic success, the venue has rapidly expanded its education programme, with school engagement rising sharply in just one year, and has introduced accessible schemes such as “Pay What You Decide” to ensure theatre remains open to all.

With major investment, growing audiences and a clear role in Prescot’s wider regeneration, the findings suggest Shakespeare North Playhouse is not just a cultural success story – but a key driver of the region’s future growth.