Historic Queensway Tunnel monument returns to Liverpool after six decades

An iconic piece of Liverpool’s engineering and architectural heritage is making a comeback as work progresses to reinstate the historic Queensway Tunnel monument at its Liverpool entrance.

The monument – originally designed in the early 1930s by Herbert Rowse, the architect behind the Queensway Tunnel – was removed in the 1960s following major road layout changes around the tunnel entrances. Its return marks a celebration of the city’s proud transport history, combining modern engineering with Rowse’s Neo-Classical and Art Deco design legacy.

The reinstated monument will serve more than a historical function – it is part of a broader plan to create an inviting and accessible space for the public to enjoy. The surrounding area will be enhanced as part of the second phase, designed 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, said;

“The return of the Queensway Tunnel monument is a proud moment for Liverpool. It’s a chance to reconnect with our heritage while creating a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.

“I’m proud to see this monument return to its rightful place, marking the gateway to a city that continues to look forward while honouring its past.”

The monument has been engineered using reinforced concrete, which will be polished to closely resemble the original black granite used in the 1930s. The reconstruction preserves the authenticity and aesthetic of the original while incorporating modern materials and construction techniques.

When the tunnel first opened in 1934, two identical monuments stood at either side of the Mersey – in Liverpool and Birkenhead. The black marble-clad columns, each topped with gilded lamps, were constructed not only to illuminate the entrances but also to symbolise the grandeur and significance of the project. While the monument in Birkenhead remains and is undergoing routine maintenance, the Liverpool monument was lost during subsequent remodelling and will now be faithfully rebuilt.

The reinstatement project is being delivered in two phases:

• Phase 1 – Monument Structure: due for completion by summer 2025
• Phase 2 – Public Realm Improvements: scheduled for completion in late 2025

This June also marks the anniversary of the opening of the Queensway and Kingsway tunnels. These engineering marvels, which have connected Liverpool and Wirral for nearly a century, are more than just tunnels; they are vital arteries of transport and symbols of innovation that have shaped the development of the Liverpool City Region.

The Kingsway Tunnel will celebrate its 54^th anniversary in June, while the Queensway Tunnel will reach an impressive 91 years of service.

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