Plans were drawn up by Planit-IE in 2014 and play a part in the Albert Dock 175 strategy launched in 2016, addressing the evolving needs of the future visitors. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool’s Albert Dock is to ask the public for its views this week on proposed changes to the waterfront attractions Northern Gateway entrance.

The plans, drawn up by Planit-IE, were commissioned in 2014 and play a part in the Albert Dock 175 strategy launched in 2016, addressing the evolving needs of the future visitors to the Grade I-listed estate.

On Tuesday, September 19, from 11am until 7pm, an exhibition will take place inside the Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Building, for residents, businesses and stakeholders to view the proposals to improve the gateway through a new pavilion building and landscaping works.

The proposals seek to build a new pavilion building along Salthouse Quay, which will act as a gateway to the wider estate within Albert Dock.

In addition to this, the entire landscape will be redesigned and updated to open up the views and provide a more pedestrian-friendly arrival space that improves access to the waters edge and wider dock.

The building will reconnect the middle ground between Albert Dock, Liverpool One and the wider city context.

The brief calls for a building that will serve as a ‘shop window’ for businesses and organisations located within the dock, an information point that will showcase events throughout the year. 

Sue Grindrod, chief executive of Gower Street Estates, said: “The dock is much loved by the public and continues to play a key role in the city’s evolution.

“That is why it is so important that the public are given this opportunity to gain a better understanding of what we are planning for the future, how our plans carefully respect the unique heritage and historic built environment of the Dock, and to have input in helping us shape the final plan.”

Arup are planning advisors on this scheme. If you cannot attend the consultation event and wish to find out more about the proposals, contact Ian Ford at ian.ford@arup.com