The neo-classical St George’s Hall in Liverpool is set to reopen on 23 April, following a five-year restoration costing £23m.
The Grade I-listed building in Liverpool’s Cultural Quarter now includes a new Heritage Centre featuring public tours called Truth and Justice; Power and Glory.
The self-guided tours will use hand-held digital devices to tell the story of the building and its role as a cultural venue and Crown Court, recounting famous trials such as the Cameo murder case.
The upgraded courts, judge’s robing room and prison cells will also be on show to visitors for the first time, and the restored concert room now features 450 seats for spectators.
In addition, a new community exhibition centre will be available for hire to societies and groups, a new street level access at South Entrance has been built and repairs have been made to the leaking roof, crumbling walls and rotten fittings.
Graham Boxer, head of heritage at the Liverpool Culture Company, said: “’Liverpool is very lucky to have a stunning concert venue, heritage centre and community exhibition centre all rolled into one magnificent building.”
The restoration of St George’s Hall – led by architects Purcell, Miller and Tritton – was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), European Regional Development Fund, The Trustees of St George’s Hall and Liverpool City Council.
The civic and court venue was first opened in 1854, following a winning design by architect Harvey Lonsdale Elmes for his acropolis-like vision. It was also fitted with the world’s first modern air-conditioning system and the largest piped organ at the time. It hosted cultural events such as Charles Dickens’ world premiere reading of The Christmas Carol.
The courts – but not Great Hall – have been closed since 1984.
