Two Liverpool museums, the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum, are set for a £58m redevelopment after receiving planning approval.
Both located at the Royal Albert Dock, the museums will close in early 2025 for a three-year upgrade. The project will link the two Grade I-listed buildings, bringing together exhibits on the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Architect Kossy Nnachetta stated that the revamped site will be the first museum dedicated to the transatlantic slave trade, saying "Liverpool, the UK, and the world is ready for this."
The redevelopment is part of National Museums Liverpool’s Waterfront Transformation Project, which aims to combine storytelling, heritage, community, and hospitality. Funding includes £9.9m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £10m from the government.
Plans include moving the International Slavery Museum’s entrance to the Dr Martin Luther King Jr building, creating a more welcoming space. The Maritime Museum will also see improvements to its visitor welcome area.