Developer releases images of planned major revamp for the Liverpool bar/restaurant in Seel Street which was formerly a Catholic church dating back to 1788. Tony McDonough reports

Signature Living has unveiled plans for a revamp of one Liverpool’s best-known bar/restaurants – Alma De Cuba.

The developer, which has just acquired the Seel Street venue, has released images of a new floor in the restaurant section.

This will also act as a wedding and events space at the former church, with the altar providing the most stunning backdrop for the newlyweds.

Alma De Cuba is a favourite among partygoers and diners in the city centre, and Signature is keen to enhance the venue by offering another floor to accommodate more guests and those who want to enjoy privacy or exclusivity.

The new floor will seat up to 170 people and be located above the already existing mezzanine area.

It will allow guests to overlook the dancefloor where the famous petal show takes place and the samba dancers perform, as the walls surrounding the new floor are made of glass.

Alma De Cuba was formerly St Peter’s Catholic Church and dates back to 1788.

In 1976 it became a place of worship for Liverpool’s Polish community and is still called the “Polish Church” by some.

Until its closure in 1978 it was the oldest Catholic Church in Liverpool.

Manchester developer Urban Splash took over the site over a decade ago and announced plans for a bar and restaurant.

Alma De Cuba opened in 2005 despite a campaign against the plan launched by a number of local people.

Signature Living founder Lawrence Kenwright said: “The altar is the centrepiece of Alma and we can’t wait to see newlyweds celebrating, or guests hosting events up there.

“It’s a really exciting next step for the restaurant and will give it a whole new dimension.”