APPLE CORPS ANNOUNCES NEW BEATLES ATTRACTION IN LIVERPOOL

Apple Corps has announced plans for a 100,000 sq ft Beatles visitor attraction in Liverpool, backed by Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. The Beatles Story will move from Albert Dock to the former St John's Market site in St John's Shopping Centre in 2028. A Yellow Submarine themed viewing experience will also open at St John's Beacon. Apple Corps said the new attraction would use original artefacts, immersive technology and recreated sets to chart the band's history. The plans include sets and props from four forthcoming Sam Mendes films, each centred on a member of The Beatles.

The former market site stands opposite Liverpool Lime Street station. Apple Corps said the experience would trace the band's journey from post-war Liverpool through Hamburg, The Cavern, Beatlemania, Abbey Road, Shea Stadium and Savile Row. Tom Greene, Apple Corps' chief executive, compared the proposed destination with Graceland and Dollywood. McCartney said: “I love Liverpool. It's part of who I am, it's part of who The Beatles are.” Starr said: “Liverpool was, and still is, Music City.”

Apple Corps, which manages The Beatles' creative and business interests, will take over operation of The Beatles Story in 2027, ahead of the move. The company said ticket sales would contribute to the Apple Corps Liverpool Trust. The trust aims to provide support and opportunities for emerging local artists. Starr welcomed the funding for Liverpool artists and said he was “still a scouser”.