An iconic monument is set to make a comeback in Liverpool as part of a broader plan to enhance a key city centre gateway. The Queensway monument, originally designed in the 1930s by Herbert Rowse, will return after more than 60 years since its removal in the 1960s due to road layout changes around the tunnel entrances.

The reinstated monument is not just a historical piece but a crucial element in creating an inviting and accessible space for the public. The surrounding area will also undergo enhancements to uplift this prominent part of Liverpool and provide a place for people to meet, relax, and connect.

Councillor Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee, expressed pride in the return of the monument, stating that it reconnects the city with its heritage while offering a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.

The monument, originally made of black granite, will be reconstructed using reinforced concrete polished to closely resemble the original material. This reconstruction aims to preserve the authenticity and aesthetic of the original while incorporating modern construction techniques.

When the tunnel first opened in 1934, identical monuments stood on both sides of the Mersey in Liverpool and Birkenhead. While the Birkenhead monument remains and is undergoing maintenance, the Liverpool monument will now be faithfully rebuilt to its former glory.

The reinstatement project will be completed in two phases, with the monument structure expected to be finished by summer. The second phase, which includes wider public realm improvements, is set to be completed by late 2025.

This revival of the iconic monument coincides with the anniversary of the opening of the Queensway and Kingsway tunnels. The Kingsway Tunnel will celebrate its 54th anniversary in June, while the Queensway Tunnel will reach an impressive 91 years of service.