History

The dock system along Liverpool 's waterfront has a long maritime history dating back to the City's 12th Century origins. However, the distinctive architectural style of the docks and associated warehouse development is principally the legacy of Jesse Hartley, who became the Liverpool Dock Engineer in 1824.

Liverpool experienced a successful and active shipping economy from the mid 1800s until the early 20th Century. However, a decline in the shipping trade was evident in the latter half of the 1900s, which impacted throughout the Southern and Central Docks. This downturn in the economic prosperity of the area continued until the early 1980s, until a regeneration project at Albert Dock saw its renaissance after years of neglect. Today, Albert Dock is one of the major tourist attractions in Liverpool.