First images of new Mersey Ferry exterior revealed

EXTERIOR images of the 1st new Mersey Ferry in more than 60 years have been revealed; showing a striking blend of modern ship design with traditional Mersey Ferry colours.

The livery is revealed in an updated CGI video which shows how the vessel will look in front of Liverpool's iconic waterfront; along with images of its stylish interior.

By retaining the fleet's traditional red, black and white colour scheme and false funnel, the exterior respects the Mersey Ferries' rich heritage, while the interior boasts a contemporary theme fit for the future.

Construction of the new Mersey Ferry is currently underway at:- Cammell Laird's Birkenhead Shipyard, with services due to start by summer 2026.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, said:- "The world-famous Mersey Ferries have served the people of the Liverpool City Region for over 800 years. With a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary design, the new ferry will be visually striking whether you're watching it sail down the Mersey from the waterfront or travelling on board. The Mersey Ferries are a proud part of our past and our future, which is why we're investing in not only a new ferry but also Seacombe and Woodside terminals on the Wirral to ensure the ferries remain a unique attraction on the River Mersey for generations to come."

David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group added:- "Construction of the new ferry is now well underway, and the vessel is really starting to take shape. Cammell Laird is working in partnership with its supply chain to deliver both the exterior and interior of the vessel as we work around the clock to make these images a reality."

The new Mersey Ferry will feature state of the art navigation and steering systems as well as providing improved spaces for events and functions.

The accessible new ferry is designed to offer a world-class experience to both everyday passengers and eventgoers thanks to large, open plan decks and smaller, more intimate event spaces for corporate functions and private parties, alongside new regular seasonal cruises.

The virtual flythrough; accessible on the Mersey Ferries website or at the:- 'Future of the Ferries' exhibition at Seacombe Terminal; allows passengers to experience the new high-spec Ferry, while being able to immerse themselves in the luxurious, comfortable surroundings while taking in the unique views across the Mersey.

For more information on Mersey Ferries, please visit:- MerseyFerries.Co.UK.

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Grosvenor evolves Liverpool One's South John Street attracting a quartet of retail signings

GROSVENOR has announced a quartet of retail signings at Liverpool ONE, as it continues to evolve and strengthen South John Street. MINISO, Bath and Body Works and Boux Avenue are to open in adjacent units in what was the former Victoria's Secret store, with Victoria's Secret relocating and reinvesting in the destination.

Rapidly expanding global lifestyle brand, MINISO, has selected a 3,000 sq ft site to make its Liverpool debut. The store will stock the brand's wide selection of popular:- 'blind boxes,' collectables, plushies, beauty products, and snacks.

Leading personal care brand, Bath and Body Works, is to make its City debut in Liverpool ONE early next year in a 3,000 sq ft unit. The store will stock Bath and Body Works' extensive selection of:- personal care products, candles, and seasonal collections.

Longstanding Liverpool ONE brand, Boux Avenue, is returning to South John Street from its temporary home on Peter's Lane, having relocated to accommodate Zara's upsize. The 3,000 sq ft space will showcase the brand's full range of:- lingerie, nightwear, loungewear, sportswear, dresses, and swimwear.

Marking one of Victoria's Secret's 1st new concept stores in its nationwide rollout, the brand has launched its new 4,000 sq ft store. Recommitting to Liverpool ONE, the new space delivers the reinvigorated brand's collection of:- lingerie, sleepwear, swimwear and athleisure, alongside a collection of fragrances and body care.

Rob Deacon, Director of Asset Management, at Grosvenor, commented:- "We enhance Liverpool ONE's appeal by constantly considering our tenant mix. To achieve this, we need both a close working relationship with brands and a deep understanding of our consumers. The signing of:- Bath and Body Works, MINISO, Boux Avenue and Victoria's Secret is another example of the successful alignment of those factors."

Saad Usman, Chief Operating Officer at MINISO, added:- "We are thrilled to be opening our City debut at Liverpool ONE, introducing our affordable and trendy collections from beloved brands such as:- Hello Kitty and Friends, Disney, and our new Harry Potter collection, which has launched just in time for Christmas. With its vibrant atmosphere, Liverpool ONE is the perfect place for our new MINISO store."

2025 is set to be Liverpool ONE's biggest year for store openings since 2008. South John Street alone will welcome Sephora's City debut and TFG London's 12,000 sq ft multi-brand store, which is its largest yet and will bring together:- Hobbs, Phase Eight, Whistles, and Inside Story. Both brands are due to open in spring next year, followed by Uniqlo's 25,000 sq ft flagship on Paradise Street.