National Museums Liverpool has partnered with the University of Liverpool’s Heritage Institute and Octopus Associates to develop the £1 Billion Initiative*.
The Heritage Institute, working alongside a consortium of leading cultural partners—including Historic England and World Monuments Fund—and scholars from the US, Oman, and Africa, will conduct a landmark study into the social and cultural value of National Museums Liverpool’s Waterfront Transformation Project.
This research will pioneer new methods to assess and evidence the project’s impact, demonstrating its potential to deliver cumulative social value exceeding £1 billion. It will highlight the transformative national and international significance of the development, positioning Liverpool and the UK at the forefront of heritage-led regeneration.
Key Objectives of the £1 Billion Initiative*
- Evaluate the impact of cultural heritage on:
- Community pride
- International tourism
- Creative industries
- Global connections
- Develop new methods and assessment techniques
- Challenge the perception of culture as “soft power”
Waterfront Transformation Project Highlights
- Reimagining the space between Royal Albert Dock and Mann Island
- Redevelopment of the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum
- Linking storytelling, heritage, community, and hospitality
- Creating a rich visitor experience and driving social and environmental improvements
Leadership & Vision
Professor Soumyen Bandyopadhyay, Director, University of Liverpool’s Heritage Institute:
“Understanding the true dimension of the social value generated through heritage, redevelopment and cultural initiatives is central to restoring the central role of heritage in our societies.”
Vicky Smith, Executive Director, National Museums Liverpool:
“The rigour and scope of University of Liverpool’s work provides deeper insight, further metrics and significant validation.”
Design & Architecture
- Led by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios)
- Sensitive redevelopment of Grade I-listed buildings:
- Hartley Pavilion
- Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building
- Monumental new entrance for the International Slavery Museum
- Contemporary link bridge with panoramic dock views
Educational & Community Impact
- Home to the National Centre for Teaching Black History
- Exhibition design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates
- New galleries and shared spaces for:
- Community use
- Research
- Learning
- Events
Maritime Museum Regeneration
- New entrance and revitalised galleries
- Expanded narratives on:
- Conflict
- Global connections
- Migration
- Revamp of the popular Titanic and Liverpool gallery
For more on National Museums Liverpool, click HERE.