Crucial funding for the revamp of Liverpool's unique International Slavery Museum will ensure the city "remains a world-leading cultural destination," the council's culture chief has said. It was announced on Monday that £10m has been secured from the government towards the transformation of the museum at the historic Albert Dock.
In October, plans described as "exceptional" for a new entrance at an unused section of the city's Albert Dock were approved by the local authority. This is part of a £58m redevelopment of the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum.
The site, which used to house Granada Television, needs an overhaul to become "more sustainable and meet the needs of the museum's audiences," according to National Museums Liverpool (NML). Documents released after Rachel Reeves presented the first Labour Budget in 14 years revealed that £10m allocated under the Conservatives through the Levelling Up fund for the project were under review and risked being completely cut.
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The Department for Culture, Media and Sport announced this morning that it will invest over £47m in six cultural projects across England, including securing the funds for NML.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool Council's cabinet member for health, wellbeing and culture, said: "We are delighted to welcome this significant investment for National Museums Liverpool, which solidifies the city's commitment to nurturing arts and heritage. Liverpool is a city which thrives on culture, creativity, and innovation, which is at the heart of our identity and economy.
"This funding boost will support future opportunities, ensuring that Liverpool remains a world-leading cultural destination, and we look forward to following the transformation journey of this part of our waterfront, and seeing the positive impact this will bring to our great city."
Planning documents from NML reveal that the regeneration of the building is a crucial component of National Museums Liverpool's Waterfront Transformation Project, aiming to set an ambitious vision for Liverpool Waterfront. The plans include transforming the frontage into a dedicated entrance for the International Slavery Museum, marking the first time in its history, and creating multi-functional cultural spaces such as the new National Centre for Teaching Black History, while continuing the partnership with the Centre for Study of International Slavery.
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