ST HELENS' MPs have reacted to the decision to strip Liverpool of its world heritage status.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) found that developments threatened the value of the city’s waterfront – but the move has been heavily criticised by politicians.

Labour’s St Helens South and Whiston MP Marie Rimmer tweeted her views on the issue.

She said: “This is a great shame, but Liverpool is a wonderful city and it always will be.

“It doesn’t need any titles to prove that.”

Labour MP for St Helens North Conor McGinn tweeted: “Liverpool is and always will be a world-famous, world-beating and, yes, a world heritage city.

“UNESCO might not say so, but we do… and so do the millions across the globe who love, visit and admire this iconic city and its brilliant people.”

Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said the Liverpool City Region is a place with a rich and storied past.

He added: “We are proud of our history and do not shy away from it.

“But our heritage is also a vital part of our regeneration.

“Today’s decision by UNESCO is a retrograde step that does not reflect the reality of what is happening on the ground.

“Indeed, this was a decision taken on the other side of the world by people who do not appear to understand the renaissance that has taken place in recent years.”

UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations.