Planning permission has been approved for the £58 million redevelopment of Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum.
Earlier this year, National Museums Liverpool appointed Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios as the new architect for the project. The team replaced previous architect Adjaye Associates.
Both museums will close in early 2025 for the works to begin, before reopening to the public in 2028.
Laura Pye, director of 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.”
She added: “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.”
Kossy Nnachetta, partner and architect at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said: “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 is ready for this.”
The redevelopment will see the entrance of the International Slavery Museum move into the Dr Martin Luther King Jr building, formerly the dock traffic office.
Museums due to reopen in 2028
Inside, the museum will become a space for learning and community with reimagined galleries. An iron and glass bridge will connect these galleries in the Hartley Pavilion to the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building.
At the Maritime Museum, the visitor welcome space and facilities will be improved.
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.
The project is part of a 10-year redevelopment of Liverpool’s historic waterfront. It received £9.9m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £10m from the government earlier this year.
Images courtesy of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
