Liverpool is known for many things: The Beatles, scouse stew, and – of course – its docks. Back in the day, Liverpool’s port was a hub of global trade. Each of the 43 docks that sit along the banks of River Mersey comes with a rich historical past, ranging from the Royal Albert Dock, which is now home to the Tate Liverpool, The Beatles Story exhibition and a host of shops and restaurants, to the city’s oldest dock, which opened in 1715 and is appropriately named The Old Dock.
But, it’s recently been announced that one of Liverpool’s lesser known docks is getting a glitzy makeover. It’s been confirmed that the Canning Quayside and Dry Docks will undergo a drastic £15 million renovation.
The revamp was commissioned by National Museums Liverpool and has just been granted planning permission. Architects Asif Khan Studio are teaming up with artist Theaster Gates to totally transform the area.
If all goes to plan, Canning Quayside will be transformed into a space for recreation and education. In an effort to make the area better connected, a footbridge will link it with Royal Albert Dock and breathe life into what is currently a dead end. This will make it easier for tourists and locals alike to journey from the city’s International Slavery Museum to the wider waterfront.
Here’s a render of what the Canning Quayside makeover could look like.
Additionally, Asif Khan Studio plans to unearth the South Dry Dock, opening it to the public for the first time since its construction over 250 years ago. A new staircase and lift will give visitors the opportunity to venture into the dock for the first time ever.
£10 million of the project’s funding is coming from the UK government’s levelling up fund, and renovations are due to begin in autumn 2024.
Did you see that this British seaside snack could be gone forever?
Plus: Birmingham is getting a brand new £700 million tram line.
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