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A memorial service will be held next month to celebrate the life and legacy of Rod Holmes, the widely respected development leader who played a pivotal role in delivering one of the UK’s most significant regeneration projects, Liverpool ONE.

The service will take place at 1:30pm on Friday 8 May 2026 at Liverpool Cathedral, and will be open to colleagues, friends and all those whose lives and careers were touched by Rod’s work.

Those wishing to attend are asked to register in advance via: https://bit.ly/4uxpyHe

Rod joined Grosvenor in 1999 to lead the development of the 42-acre Paradise Project, which went on to become Liverpool ONE. He assembled and led the team that delivered the scheme, helping to reshape Liverpool city centre and contributing significantly to the city’s wider economic renaissance.

Often described as the driving force behind Liverpool ONE, Rod combined commercial acumen with a strong sense of purpose, championing long-term place-making over short-term financial return. His leadership was instrumental in delivering the project in time for Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture 2008, a milestone widely seen as transformative for the city.

Over a career spanning four decades, Rod worked across the UK and internationally, with projects in Europe, the Middle East, North America and Asia. Earlier in his career, he was involved in landmark developments including the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, often referred to as the “Pyramid of the Gulf”.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rod was a committed supporter of Liverpool’s cultural life. He served as a trustee of the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres and helped establish the Liverpool ONE Charitable Foundation, reflecting his belief that successful development should create lasting social as well as economic value.

Chris Bliss, former Liverpool ONE Director and Director of Momentum Group, said:

“Following Rod’s passing and funeral in East Yorkshire, many people felt it was important to hold something in Liverpool to properly recognise the scale of his contribution to the city. A small group of his friends and colleagues have come together to organise what we hope will be a fitting celebration of his life and work at the memorial on 8 May.”

Colleagues remember him as a generous mentor, a constructive challenger and a leader who inspired those around him to think bigger and deliver better.

All those who knew Rod through Liverpool ONE, Grosvenor, the wider property industry, or Liverpool’s business and cultural communities are warmly invited to attend.

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