Attraction became the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool last year, an honour bestowed by the Queen ahead of its 175th anniversary in 2021. Tony McDonough reports

Prince Charles is to visit Liverpool’s Albert Dock in recognition of the waterfront attractions’ newly-acquired royal status.

The dock became the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool last year, an honour bestowed by the Queen ahead of its 175th anniversary in 2021 and on Tuesday, February 12, the Prince of Wales, the heir to the throne, will tour the Grade I-listed site.

He will be met by Dave Roscoe, chair of the board of directors, who are custodians of the historic estate, which attracts more than 6m visitors a year, long with chief executive of the dock, Sue Grindrod.

They will escort Charles around the Dock to meet various stakeholders, local businesses and staff from some of the attractions, including a special tour of the International Slavery Museum.

The Prince himself reopened the regenerated dock in May 1988 with the opening of Tate Liverpool, following a full restoration after years of decline and near demolition.

Royal status recognises the importance of the dock both for its historical and architectural significance and its place within Liverpool’s past and future. Royal status forms part of a vision to assert the its position as a world-class tourism and leisure destination and a protected heritage asset for future generations.

Sue Grindrod said: “Royal status and the visit by The Prince of Wales recognises the dock’s historic role in the UK as a unique heritage asset. It also acknowledges its significance in the ongoing regeneration of Liverpool and wider city region.

“The dock has had a long relationship with the Royal Family since its opening and during some of its landmark moments. We look forward to welcoming His Royal Highness back after 30 years to show how far we have progressed and see first hand the changes that are being made in preparation for our 175th anniversary in 2021.”