Architect's design chosen for Merseyside observatory and visitor centre near landmark Gormley sculture

Duggan Morris has won the competition to design a new observatory in Liverpool Bay.

The practice beat off competition from Ellis Williams, Farrel & Clark, Phos Architects and Studio 8 to design a 拢11m visitor centre at Crosby beach, Merseyside.

The lamp-shaped structure will be built overlooking Liverpool Bay and in close proximity to artist Antony Gormley鈥檚 鈥渋ron men鈥� statues.

The Mersey Basin Campaign has led the project, backed by Peel Holdings, Mersey Waterfront and the North-West Regional Development Agency.

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