Restoration of Everton landmark takes major step forward as surveys and repair programme begin

Liverpool City Council is advancing its efforts to restore a prominent historic building located in Everton. The council has engaged specialist contractors to conduct a thorough assessment of the Grade II-listed structure, aiming to devise a comprehensive repair plan that will ensure the building’s preservation for the future.

To support this next stage, the council has secured £250,000 funding, which will be used for detailed condition surveys, environmental assessments, asbestos investigations, and initiatives to render the building weatherproof. These investigations will provide, for the first time in over two decades, an in-depth evaluation of the building’s current state and the scope of work needed for its complete restoration.

The survey work is scheduled to begin in September 2026, with results expected later that autumn. The inspections will cover as many parts of the building as possible, including an examination of structural integrity, water damage, windows, roofs, and other areas affected by long-term neglect. In sections considered unsafe for direct access, specialist techniques such as drone inspections will be employed.

Additionally, the project will address environmental challenges, including the effects of persistent pigeon activity and other pest issues. The assessment will encompass the necessary environmental cleaning measures and asbestos testing. Although the full extent of repairs will be clearer after these surveys, the council anticipates that restoration efforts will likely involve fixing gutters, drainpipes, windows, water-damaged sections, and masonry, along with improvements to protect against future weather-related deterioration.

Liverpool City Council owns the building, and its Heritage team is overseeing the restoration programme. Over the next few months, residents can expect to see survey teams on site, followed by the development of detailed repair schedules and cost estimates. The data gathered will be critical in planning future restoration and weatherproofing work, as well as in supporting applications for additional funding to secure the building’s long-term preservation.

Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, commented on the project: “For many years people have rightly been concerned about the condition of this building, which used to be a liberary, and want to see progress. This project marks the beginning of that process. Before we can undertake a full restoration, we need a detailed understanding of the condition of the building and the challenges we face. These surveys will give us the information we need to plan repairs, develop restoration proposals and secure the substantial funding that will ultimately be required. Our long-term vision is to bring the building back into use as a vibrant heritage asset that serves local people and acts as a social, cultural and economic catalyst for the wider area. The former library is one of the area’s most recognisable landmarks and many residents have strong memories and connections to the building. People want to know that progress is being made and that there is a clear plan for its future. The work now being commissioned is an important milestone because it will help us understand exactly what needs to be done to safeguard the building and bring it back into use. I know residents will welcome the fact that the council is now taking practical steps to move the restoration project forward.”

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