Iconic Queensway monument set to return after more than 60 years

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 1st opened in 1934, 2 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 2 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 54th Anniversary in June 2025, while the Queensway Tunnel will reach an impressive 91 years of service.

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Letter to Editor:- "West Lancs Kids - Powering Up with Larkfield Primary School"

"WE were thrilled to welcome more than 80 Year 5 and 6 pupils from Larkfield Primary School, in Southport, for 3 special Sailing Experience Days in:- May and June 2025. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Marine Lake in the heart of the town, the days were filled with excitement, teamwork, and new discoveries. For many of the children, it was their 1st time on the water; but nerves were quickly replaced by laughter, learning, and a sense of adventure. Our team of dedicated volunteers were just as enthusiastic, sharing their knowledge and passion for sailing. Teachers, too, got involved, donning buoyancy aids and joining the pupils on the boats for an unforgettable hands-on experience. Larkfield's School motto:- 'Enjoy, Learn, Succeed,' was clearly brought to life on the water. Every child stepped out of their comfort zone, picked up new skills, and, most importantly, had a lot of fun doing it. This new partnership with Larkfield Primary School is part of our wider Schools outreach programme:- 'West Lancs Kids; Powering Up!' and builds on the success of our ongoing partnership with Norwood School, which began in 2024, and continues in July this year with another group of 90 children. The programme has been made possible thanks to the generous support of the RYA Sunsail:- "Funding the Future" initiative, Trinity House, the Liverpool Marine Engineers' and Naval Architects' Guild, and the proceeds from the WLYC 24 Hour Race raffle sponsored by Marine Supplies Direct and their chandlery suppliers. Their funding has helped us provide vital training and equipment to open up the world of sailing to more and more young people in our local community. Every child taking part can also join our OnBoard programme, with 3 Saturday sailing sessions open to junior non members who are interested in taking the opportunity further. Each session costs only �5 and can be booked with the WLYC Membership Secretary via email MembershipSecretary.WLYC@Gmail.Com or the website, where parents can also find details of how to join our sailing family. We're already looking forward to welcoming Larkfield Primary School back next year; if the smiles and stories from this year's visits are anything to go by, we're in for more fantastic memories!" WLYC

International Yacht Paint Announced as Headline Sponsor for the 2025 WLYC 24 Hour Race

Photo courtesy of Richard Craig � https://SailPics.Co.UK

THE West Lancashire Yacht Club (WLYC) are thrilled to announce International yacht paint as the headline sponsor for the 2025 WLYC 24 Hour Race, the UK�s premier dinghy sailing endurance event.

AkzoNobel�s International brand, is 1 of the world�s leading global manufacturers and suppliers of marine, protective, and yacht coatings. With a long-standing reputation for innovation and performance, International is partnering with WLYC to support this iconic race, which has been a highlight of the sailing calendar for over 50 years.

The 2025 event will take place from:- 12 Noon on:- 13 September, to 12 Noon, on:- 14 September 2025, on Southport Marine Lake, attracting top sailing teams from across the UK.

The partnership brings together expertise from International in marine protection and performance with a race that challenges both sailors and their boats in a true test of endurance. This collaboration ensures that the event continues to thrive, offering a fantastic experience for competitors and spectators alike.

"We are delighted to welcome International as our headline sponsor for 2025. Their support will help us enhance the event while maintaining the competitive spirit and camaraderie that make it so special," said Richard Westlake, Commodore of WLYC.

Jemma Lampkin, Global Commercial Director, AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings added:- "Providing paints for the sailing community is at the heart of what we do, and the WLYC 24 Hour Race is a fantastic showcase of skill, teamwork, and endurance. We�re proud to be supporting this historic event and look forward to working with WLYC to make 2025 the best race yet."