Fresh signage for Liverpool’s Albert Dock

Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock is to receive an overhauled wayfinding and signage system created by Holmes Wood.

The consultancy was appointed to the project by the site’s management company, Gower Street Estates, following a three-way credentials pitch against undisclosed groups.

According to Holmes Wood project director Kirsty Morrison, the dock’s existing signs are weather-worn and dated. ‘Everything’s going to be scrapped and we’re starting from scratch,’ she says.

The new system is part of an upgrade of Liverpool’s public areas in anticipation of its role as the European Capital of Culture in 2008. Holmes Wood is due to complete the scheme by 2007.

The new signage has to be capable of reflecting the fast-paced changing events in the docks, according to Morrison. ‘We want the new system to describe some of the life going on there,’ she says.

Digital signs are being considered for the area, as well as more traditional static signage. The scheme must integrate with adjoining systems, including new signage installed in the city centre.

The dock itself is home to the largest group of Grade I-listed buildings in the UK and has become one of the city’s busiest districts following a redevelopment in the 1980s.

Tate Liverpool, The Beatles Story and the National Maritime Museum are all situated on the site, along with a range of bars, restaurants, offices and residential apartments. Directly opposite is the Liverpool One retail development and to the south is the Kings Waterfront Arena and Convention Centre.