New Welcome Centre planned for Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
The Archdiocese of Liverpool has appointed Buttress Architects to develop a new Welcome Centre for Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, the first in a series of projects emerging from ongoing masterplanning work.
The new facility will replace the former visitor centre and provide a renovated space to enhance the visitor experience. This project aims to support the cathedral’s mission as a place of faith, heritage, and community, ensuring it continues to welcome people from near and far.
Buttress was initially appointed to undertake the first ever Quinquennial Inspection on the building to gain a deeper understanding of the condition of the building fabric. This was followed by the strategic masterplan work, addressing key priorities, including the improvement of the entire visitor experience and the cathedral’s carbon footprint. The Welcome Centre designs will help redefine the visitor journey, enhancing the arrival experience while seamlessly connecting new and previously underused spaces.
The new Welcome Centre will play a key role in redefining the visitor journey, enhancing the arrival experience, and making better use of existing spaces.
Buttress will lead the architectural and heritage consultancy for the project, working alongside a wider team including ClancyGroup, DFC, Enabl, Focus, Hive, IWSA, Max Fordham, Planit, Safer Sphere, and Sutcliffe.
Monsignor Anthony O’Brien, Cathedral Dean, said: “We’re looking forward to the next stage of this project. The cathedral is a place of welcome for all, and this development will allow us to strengthen that even further. We’re pleased to be working with Buttress to bring these plans to life.”
Matthew Burl, Director at Buttress, added: “This project marks an important step in revitalising the cathedral’s visitor experience. As a landmark of faith and community, the cathedral holds deep spiritual, cultural, and architectural significance. Our approach is one of careful renewal, preserving what makes the building special while introducing thoughtful interventions that support its role as a dynamic centre of faith and community.”
The 1967 Metropolitan cathedral was designed by Frederick Gibberd and features a circular form with a stained-glass lantern. It is the largest Catholic cathedral in England.
