I am writing regarding the recent plans made for a building in Christian Street Liverpool L5. The building in question is one of the oldest remaining remnants of the areas ?Little Italy? and once the heart of the community as the local pub. The Pontack has been ear marked for development as student accommodation in an area that is mostly made up of pensioner?s bungalows. As you can imagine pensioners and students have extremely different lifestyles that would only clash.
The area went through total demolition 22 years ago when Gerard Gardens tenements were pulled down against the then residents approval. Some of them original residents headed by Chris Doran are now fighting against the future of the Pontack.
The building has so much more potential, it was once thought it would have made a fantastic meeting place to research family history and displaying a photographic social history of the area. The neighbourhood is steeped in history, as you already know the Italians came to Christian Street, Gerard Street and Hunter Street and developed it into a thriving community alongside the earlier Irish inhabitants. Strong bonds were formed, local businesses prospered creating a mix of people with one thing in common?a love and sense of pride for their surroundings and fellow neighbours. The people all come from similar backgrounds and have the utmost respect for each other, putting someone as alien as students in the area would have a dire effect on the ambiance and well being of the people and their community.
If there is anything you can do or suggest to help I would Really appreciate it.
This is not an anti-student protest, also please read this post carefully as it is not intended to cause offence .
