Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum have secured £10 million in government funding for a £58 million redevelopment of both sites.
The grant was allocated by the previous Conservative government in spring 2024, but the new Labour government announced in the last Autumn Budget that the funding could be withdrawn.
Ministers have reviewed the funding and approved it to “expand and maintain” both museums, the BBC reports.
£58m redevelopment of two museums
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Through investing in these critical cultural projects we can empower both local leaders and people to really tap into their potential and celebrate everything their home town has to offer.
“This means more tourism, more growth and more money in people’s pockets.”
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added: “This support will empower our cultural organisations to continue playing an essential role in developing skills, talent and high-quality careers in every corner of the UK.”
The two Liverpool-based museums are set to close for three years during the refurbishment, which will connect the Grade I-listed buildings. Planning permission was approved in October.
Laura Pye, director of National Museums Liverpool, said the milestone “represents the hard work and dedication of all those involved in the redevelopment”.
Last year, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios was appointed as the new architect for the project. The team replaced previous architect Adjaye Associates.
Museums to close for three years
Kossy Nnachetta, partner and architect at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said the project “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 is ready for this,” said Nnachetta.
Leading the exhibition design for both museums is Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA), a multidisciplinary firm specialising in the planning and design of museums, exhibits, educational environments and visitor attractions.
Images courtesy of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
