Liverpool’s new Ken Dodd Happiness Centre has received the green light for its construction.
The £15 million project aims to honour the legacy of one of Liverpool’s most cherished comedians.
Approval for the Ken Dodd Happiness Centre
Plans for the £15 million Ken Dodd Happiness Centre in Liverpool have received approval. The project aims to commemorate the life and career of one of the city’s most beloved comedians. Building work is scheduled to begin in 2025, with the doors to open in 2027, marking what would have been Sir Ken Dodd’s 100th birthday.
Liverpool’s Royal Court, in collaboration with The Comedy Trust and The Sir Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, initiated the proposal. The goal is to celebrate Liverpool’s comedy heritage and provide a permanent home for Sir Ken Dodd’s extensive archive. The centre will feature a range of activities, including comedy-based workshops and performances.
Exhibitions and Features
The four-storey building will house the Sir Ken Dodd archive and Happiness exhibition, which is currently displayed at National Museum Liverpool. It will highlight Dodd’s contributions to comedy while also offering spaces for workshops, talks, and performances. The centre aims to honour all forms of comedy and humour, reflecting the city’s unique comedic flair.
The centre will explore how humour defines the people of Liverpool and its role in the city’s identity. Visitors will learn about Liverpool’s reputation for wit and humour and how laughter can enhance wellbeing. These elements make the centre a significant cultural addition to the city.
Architectural Plans and Construction
The Ken Dodd Happiness Centre will be built on land adjacent to Liverpool’s Royal Court, where the Courtyard Bar & Kitchen currently stands. Upon completion, the centre will also include a new 100-seat restaurant, further enhancing its appeal as a cultural and social hub.
Designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), the project will benefit from the architectural firm’s experience. AHMM previously worked on the extensive refurbishment of Liverpool’s Royal Court, ensuring a cohesive design that complements the existing structures.
Funding and Support
Funding for the £15 million project will come from multiple sources, primarily the Sir Ken Dodd Charitable Trust. Additional support may be sought to cover the remaining costs. Once completed, the building will connect to Liverpool’s Royal Court, providing new dressing rooms and office space.
This expansion will enable the theatre to stage larger and more ambitious productions. The public is also being consulted on what they would like to see included in the museum and archive, ensuring community involvement throughout the process.
Community Impact and Engagement
Lady Anne Dodd expressed her excitement about reaching this landmark stage. She mentioned that the building’s location, near St George’s Hall, would have delighted Sir Ken Dodd.
Gillian Miller, CEO of Liverpool Royal Court, emphasised that the centre reflects Ken Dodd’s philosophy that ‘Happiness is the greatest gift that we possess’. The centre aims to bring joy and wellbeing to the community and serve as a positive initiative in challenging times.
The project will also feature what is described as the world’s biggest tickling stick, which is expected to become a city landmark, attracting tourists and visitors. This unique aspect is designed to put a smile on the face of everyone who visits.
Future Prospects and Legacy
The Ken Dodd Happiness Centre is poised to become a major cultural attraction in Liverpool, offering both entertainment and educational value. Its connection to Liverpool’s Royal Court will enhance the theatre’s capabilities, allowing for more ambitious and varied performances in the future.
The centre will serve as a lasting tribute to Sir Ken Dodd’s legacy, ensuring his contributions to comedy are remembered and celebrated for generations to come. It will also provide opportunities for aspiring comedians to develop their craft, fostering the next generation of comedic talent.
Public Involvement
The public’s input is being sought on what they would like to see in the Ken Dodd Happiness Centre. This inclusive approach aims to create a space that is reflective of the community’s desires and needs.
The Ken Dodd Happiness Centre promises to be a valuable addition to Liverpool’s cultural landscape.
By celebrating Sir Ken Dodd’s life and contributions, the centre aims to bring joy to the community for years to come.
