The Albert Dock

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Thirty years ago it would have seemed inconceivable that a group of disused, tatty, dirty and war-damaged buildings could have become part of the glorious image of Liverpool.

Designed by Jesse Hartley, the docks were completed during his appointment as Chief Engineer of the Liverpool Docks and are only a small part of his achievements in that role. He was 61 years old when the work started in 1841 and he continued to work until his death 19 years later.In the five years it took to build, over 23 million bricks were used to to incorporate the iron framework, making it totally fireproof.

The Dock was opened in 1846 by Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, after whom they are named. Unfortunately due to changes in trade patterns, the increasing size of ships and introduction of steam vessels,  the dock was only truly functional for about 40 years although it was used until the 1960s when it faced demolition. The dock was saved firstly by indecision and finally by the Toxteth Riots of 1981.

The Albert Dock is not just the monumental buildings built in a rectangle, but part of an interlinked group of docks together with associated buildings and structures. These include the Dock Office, now a Granada TV news studio, and the Pump House that is now a pub/restaurant. The whole area has been cleaned and many historic artefacts such as hoists and shipping relics have been restored.

Restoration commenced in 1982 and by 1984 was partly finished in time for the Tall Ships Race. It was to take another 20 years before the project was completed and now the complex offers a range of attractions, The Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool, Beatles Story Experience, shops and restaurants. There is a hotel, offices and residential apartments and the whole site is within easy walking distance of the city centre.

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