Imperial Quarter owner Ian Pitts recognised with 'Building Back' Award

With the "game changing" Imperial Food and Drink Quarter providing another boost to St Helens' night time economy, owner Ian Pitts was awarded with the 'Building Back' Award at this year's Pride of St Helens Awards.

Attempting to bring a city centre feel to St Helens, Mr Pitts bought and demolished an old toilet block on Brook Street during the pandemic, and transformed it into a vibrant food and drink market full of independent vendors.

Imperial Quarter aims to bring a city centre feel to St Helens (Image: St Helens Star)

It is the latest venture from the entrepreneur, who also owns the Imperial nightclub, Cork & Dough pizza restaurant, the Secret Graden gin bar, underground bar The Church, and the Citadel Theatre in the town centre.

Creating a collection of attractive and close-by venues, Mr Pitts has been desperately trying to build back the night time conomy, which has been hit hard by declining footfall, the pandemic, and the cost of living crisis. 

With regeneration plans in the pipeline, his efforts have been a lifeline for the town centre and there are hopes his businesses can attract further investment into St Helens and they can grow with the regeneration proposals.

Jamie Etchells picking up Ian Pitt's 'Building Back' award (Image: Dave Gillespie)

Although Mr Pitts was not present on the night of the awards ceremony, his business associate Jamie Etchells picked up the honour for him.

Jamie said the Imperial Quarter business has been doing "really well" since opening and the pair are looking forward to further town centre plans such as a possible hotel on the horizon.

Pouring his time, effort, and money into his latest venture, Mr Pitts said that the success of the Quarter and the town centre relies on the support of local people.

Imperial Quarter is located on Brook Street in the town centre (Image: St Helens Star)

He said: "It's been a tough time for businesses over the past few years, and independents have really struggled.

"That's why we need the support from local people to come and spend their money here so we can keep growing and developing.

"Ultimately, my aim is to provide investment and give people a reason to stay in the town; where they can come for a drink or something to eat and go on to support other local venues."