Liverpool ONE showcases next generation of artistic talent

EXCEPTIONAL artwork by young students from across the Liverpool City Region is now taking centre stage, at Liverpool ONE, with the launch of a new outdoor dot art Schools exhibition on School Lane.

The vibrant display brings together outstanding pieces from:- Year 5 and Year 9 students, creating a spectacular celebration of emerging talent right in the heart of the City.

The featured works represent the culmination of the 13th annual dot art Schools programme, with entries chosen by arts professionals and an online public vote.

dot-art is a local arts social enterprise that champions creativity, supporting artists of all ages through its gallery, exhibitions and community projects, with the School's programme dedicated to nurturing the next generation.

The winning pieces, which have also been exhibited at the prestigious Walker Art Gallery, now take pride of place in the retail and entertainment destination.

Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said:- "We are proud to shine a spotlight on the creativity of these talented young artists at Liverpool ONE. This outdoor exhibition is a testament to the imagination and ambition of the next generation. By showcasing their work in the City centre, we hope to inspire them to continue their artistic journeys while giving thousands of visitors the chance to enjoy and celebrate their talent."

Lucy Byrne, Founder and Managing Director of dot art, said:- "We are thrilled to see the exceptional work of our young artists showcased in such a prominent location. This outdoor exhibition not only highlights the talent emerging from our School's programme but also underscores the power of art to inspire and unite communities. It's a testament to the creativity flourishing across the Liverpool City Region and a source of pride for all involved."

Registration is now open for the 2026 dot-art Schools programme, inviting primary, secondary and special Schools across the Liverpool City Region to take part in this celebration of creativity.

Teachers can register at:- Schools.Dot-Art.Com, email:- Schools@Dot-Art.Com for further details, or call:- 03450176660 to speak with the team.  Further details about Liverpool ONE can be found at:- Liverpool-ONE.Com,

FSB welcomes green light for devolution in Cheshire and Warrington

HISTORIC Council agreement sets the stage for self determination and £650 million over 30 years. A Mayoral Combined Authority will be established in Cheshire and Warrington following formal approval by all 3 local Councils; with an election to select the first Mayor to take place in May 2027.

FSB recently wrote to Council leaders urging them to back devolution proposals to transfer powers and resources away from London and to the Region. In separate votes, the Councils have agreed to press ahead with the proposals; which will provide over £650million for Cheshire and Warrington over the next 30 years.

Warrington Borough Council; the final Council left to formally confirm its decision; approved the proposals at the Cabinet meeting held on:- Monday 22 September 2025, following initial endorsement received at its Full Council meeting on:- Monday, 15 September 2025. This follows approval from Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council earlier in the month.

Formal consent has now been confirmed with Steve Reed MP, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, who has ministerial responsibility for English devolution. This will enable the Government to move forward with legislation to formally establish the new Mayoral Combined Authority over the coming months; potentially as early as February 2026.

FSB Regional Stakeholder and Business Manager for the North West, Phil McCabe, welcomed the development, saying:- "Establishing mayoral combined authorities is the only game in Town in order to secure significant Government funding and self-determination for the future of Cheshire and Warrington, and it is pleasing that all 3 Councils have voted to establish 1 here. Failing to do so would have left the county behind and playing catch-up. Devolution will allow Cheshire and Warrington to join other areas, including:- Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester, in gaining greater control over key areas such as:- transport, housing, skills, and economic growth, while unlocking access to significant new funding and investment opportunities."

In a joint statement, the leaders of the 3 Councils said:- "We're proud to have reached this important milestone together. This decision represents a united commitment to securing a better future for Cheshire and Warrington. Devolution gives us a real opportunity to make decisions locally, based on the needs and ambitions of our communities and businesses; whether that's improving transport, delivering more affordable homes, growing our local economy, or investing in the skills our residents need. With all 3 Councils aligned, we can now move forward with confidence, unlocking more than £650million in funding over the next 30 years, and shaping a more connected area. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter, 1 built on collaboration and a commitment to supporting our communities and businesses to thrive. While the 3 Councils have made the decision to establish a Mayoral Combined Authority, the people of Cheshire and Warrington have a significant decision to make in 2027; and that is the election of the area's 1st Mayor."

What are your thoughts on this news topic? Email our Newsroom at:- News24@SouthportReporter.Com or send us a message on:- Mastodon, Facebook, or Twitter. Please do let us know as we love to hear your views....