Historic Wirral building set to be able to welcome more visitors
The oldest standing building in Merseyside will be able to welcome even more visitors following work set to be completed as part of Wirral Council’s Birkenhead waterfront upgrades.
A contractor has now been appointed to install a lift and to make other improvements to the historic Priory in Birkenhead.
The works, which are part of the wider Birkenhead Waterfront Programme, are funded through the Local Regeneration Fund and aimed at improving the experience of visitors, including making the site more accessible.
The Birkenhead Priory is believed to have been founded in the mid-12th century as a Benedictine Priory by Hamon de Massey, 3rd Baron of Dunham, Cheshire, originally, surrounded on three sides by the River Mersey.
It subsequently developed into a prosperous monastic quarter, mainly as a result of the rights granted by the King for operating the now famous Mersey ferry crossing. The Priory monks also provided accommodation along with food and drink, for a price, to travellers.
In 1536 the Priory was closed as part of the first wave of the Dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII, although some buildings on the site have been reused in various guises, and at least two manor houses have been built and demolished in the grounds.
As the 19th century industrial revolution took hold of Birkenhead and the population and industry began to grow, St Mary’s Church was erected on the site, opening in 1822.
The site is registered as an Ancient Scheduled Monument and all the structures within are listed either Grade I, Grade II* or Grade II.
Wirral Council’s interim Director of Capital Programmes has now approved the award of a contract to Krol Corlett Construction Ltd for building works to Birkenhead Priory to improve public access to the Refectory, including installation of a lift and other improvements to make the site more accessible. The 33 week contract is priced at £169,086.
Chair of Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee, Cllr Mark Skillicorn, said:
“Birkenhead Priory is one of Wirral and Merseyside’s most important heritage assets and a remarkable part of our history, with a story stretching back almost 900 years. These improvements, to be carried out with respect to the site's historic importance, will help make the Priory more accessible, ensuring even more people can experience and enjoy this unique landmark.
The installation of a lift and other enhancements will improve the visitor experience while preserving the character and significance of this much-loved building.
And as part of our wider waterfront regeneration programme, this demonstrates our commitment to protecting our heritage and making it available to everyone, now and for future generations, and showing how the Local Regeneration Fund is delivering real impact for local residents.
