Castle Street Landmark Poised for Major Refurbishment to Boost Liverpool’s Business Core

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A historic office building in Liverpool is preparing for a substantial multi-million-pound renovation aimed at revitalising one of the city’s oldest streets and drawing more tenants and visitors to the area.

Castle Chambers, an expansive commercial property on Castle Street, dates back to the 1950s and holds a prominent place among Liverpool’s original seven streets. The building has long been regarded as a cornerstone of the Commercial Quarter, anchoring the heart of the city’s business district. Under new proposals, Castle Chambers could undergo a comprehensive refurbishment if local officials approve. Specifically, Wirral Council will consider whether to allow the director of the Merseyside Pension Fund to appoint a contractor to carry out the project.

The Merseyside Pension Fund (MPF), which manages pension investments for local authority employees across the region, owns a portfolio of properties throughout the United Kingdom. According to official documents presented to the Wirral Council Pensions Committee, the estimated cost of the upgrade falls between £1.5 million and £5.3 million. The final figure, which has yet to be confirmed, includes Value Added Tax (VAT) as well as a contingency allowance set at £250,000.

In its report to elected members, the pension fund emphasised the importance of keeping its holdings in prime condition. It stated, “It is essential that these properties are well maintained to ensure compliance with regulatory and environmental standards and to retain and attract tenants.” This perspective underscores a wider recognition among property owners that high-quality office spaces are increasingly necessary to remain competitive and support local economic vitality.

If approved, the refurbishment is expected to improve both the exterior and interior of Castle Chambers, enhancing its appeal to businesses seeking a central location with historic character. While precise details about the planned upgrades have not been released, such investments typically involve modernising building systems, upgrading common areas, and ensuring accessibility standards are met.

The project reflects a broader trend of reinvestment in established commercial centres rather than pursuing purely new developments. For Liverpool, this approach signals confidence in the city’s role as a hub for professional services and underscores the value of preserving architectural landmarks while adapting them for modern use.

Councillors are scheduled to review the plans on July 22, when a final decision on appointing a contractor and releasing funds is expected. Should the proposal go forward, work on Castle Chambers could begin later this year, reinforcing Castle Street’s status as a vibrant business destination.