Conversion into an Art Gallery
Tate Liverpool
© Tate
By the 1960s, the Albert Dock had been allowed to fall into a state of dilapidation and plans were in place for its demolition. After protracted discussions for its removal, it was finally closed in 1972. In contrast, by the late 1970s, early 1980s, the city had undergone a program of rejuvenation. In 1979 the Director and Trustees of the Tate Gallery were sufficiently inspired by Liverpool’s renaissance to explore the possibilities of establishing a new gallery in the North of England and on this historical site.
Tate Liverpool
© Tate
In 1982 the newly formed Merseyside Development Corporation was founded, with one of their chief aims being the renovation of the docklands. The organisation converted the Dock to accommodate the Merseyside Maritime Museum (now part of the National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside) as well as shops, offices and apartments. The attractions and accessibility of Albert Dock, together with fine collections of pre-twentieth century art available in Merseyside, made Liverpool the ideal choice for Tate.