Lodge Lane

Devoid of investment since the Toxteth riots of 1981, Lodge Lane can look a little intimidating. But, it’s a pulsating and vibrant working class area representing so much that is good about our city.
An array of grocery stores selling affordable aromatic spices, scotch bonnets, rabbits (ready-​dead ones) and other treats you won’t find in your local Liverpool supermarket. Delicacies at good prices.
The barber shops open and close late and almost always seem busy, conversations flowing in scouse, Swahili and myriad languages.
Much of the area around Smithdown Road is being knocked down and redeveloped. Driving out of town towards south Liverpool and looking left you can still see remnants of colour in the bulldozed buildings.
I just hope the council see Lodge Lane for what it really is, the city in a microcosm. Nurture it, don’t nuke it.