National Museums Liverpool is a
step closer to realising its ambition for the city’s waterfront, after planning
permission was approved to redevelop the International Slavery Museum and
Maritime Museum.
The transformed museums will centre around
people – past, present and future, local, national and international – to
create dynamic, welcoming spaces that meaningfully address contemporary issues.
Those whose lives have been most affected by the histories being told are
playing a fundamental role in the development of both museums.
Image: Entrance Pavilion to International Slavery Museum © Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
The redevelopment will see the Dr Martin
Luther King Jr Building transform into a prominent new entrance to the
International Slavery Museum.
A new Entrance Pavilion will create an
inspiring welcome and a stronger sense of identity for the museum. Internally,
the building will become a space for learning and community. A striking iron
and glass bridge will connect the re-imagined International Slavery Museum
galleries in the Hartley Pavilion to the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building and
offer spectacular views both into and out of the Royal Albert Dock.
Maritime Museum’s improved visitor welcome
and orientation space will enable visitors to appreciate the historic fabric
and scale of the building on arrival. There will also be better circulation for
visitors and enhanced commercial facilities, including a shop, café and events
spaces.
National Museums Liverpool has also worked
closely with a variety of organisations including Historic England, Merseyside
Civic Society and Liverpool City Council on the development plans.
Image: Entrance Pavilion North View © Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
In January 2024, National Museums Liverpool
announced the appointment of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios) as the
new team leading the architectural design of the £58m major redevelopment of
the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum. The practice has
been working with key members of the University of Liverpool: School of
Architecture, in facilitating community conversations.
Ralph Appelbaum Associates, who were
appointed in 2022, are leading on the exhibition design for both museums
The redevelopment of International Slavery
Museum and Maritime Museum is part of the wider Waterfront Transformation Project which links storytelling, heritage, community and
hospitality to create a rich visitor experience and be a catalyst for social
and environmental improvements in the area.
Both venues will
close on 5 January 2025 for works to begin, reopening to the public in 2028.
This project is
made possible with £9.9million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with
thanks to National Lottery Players.
Image: View from Canning Dock © Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
Kossy Nnachetta,
Partner and Architect at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said: “We are excited about the designs; the engagement they
encourage and the stories they tell. This project – like both museums within it
- embodies a determination that our collective and shared history is expressed.
“It boldly addresses
themes of restorative justice through space; which is fitting for the first
museum in the world dedicated to the transatlantic slave trade. Liverpool, the
UK and the world are ready for this.”
Laura Pye,
Director, National Museums Liverpool said: “This important
milestone represents the hard work and dedication of all those involved in the
redevelopment of both the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum.
Throughout the process we have been guided by our community stakeholders and
this bold and exciting approach is a testament to their energy, knowledge and
experience, alongside the powerful collections and stories both museums hold.”
