Architects appointed for pounds 5m Royal Liver revamp; IN ASSOCIATION WITH Rensburg Sheppards Location Artist impression shows vision for iconic site.

Byline: BY TONY McDONOUGH Deputy Business Editor

PROPERTY and construction consultancy Acies has been appointed as architect on the redevelopment and reconfiguration of the Royal Liver Building in Liverpool.

The pounds 5m project will include a major refurbishment to the ground floor, transforming the west entrance by enclosing the portico in glass to make a new entrance to the building.

The designs will also see the creation of a mezzanine floor specifically designed to accommodate new office space at the world heritage site and Grade 1 listed building, one of the world famous Three Graces along with the Cunard and Port of Liverpool buildings.

Roy Alexander, partner and head architect at Acies, said: "The Royal Liver Building is an iconic site, and is a unique opportunity to use our skills and experience to transform a building of this calibre.

"The building is one of the earliest examples of multi-storey steelwork construction, and as an architect it provides an exciting challenge."

Part of one of the world's most famous waterfronts the Royal Liver Building stands with the fabled liver birds nested on top.

Mr Alexander added: "As a world heritage site, it is essential to ensure our designs are to the highest standard, enhancing the buildings features but remaining in keeping with the buildings overall appearance."

Acies' architecture division launched last year and will celebrate its year anniversary this month.

Founded in January 2004, Acies has increased its turnover to nearly pounds 3m in less than four years.

This growth has seen the business expand its premises in Chester and Edinburgh, and open an additional office in Manchester, more than doubling its workforce in the process.

Last week LDP Business revealed another of the Three Graces - the Cunard Building - was to benefit from a conservation management plan to help it retain its splendour.

The Liverpool office of architects Buttress Fuller Alsop Williams has been appointed by building manager CB Richard Ellis to survey the condition and create a forward plan for the maintenance and development of the Grade II listed building.

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CAPTION(S):

An artist's impression of the rejuvenated interiro of the Royal Liver Assurance Building; A view of the planned entrance area