A new hotel dedicated to Everton FC legend Dixie Dean will open in Liverpool next year.
Signature Living have confirmed work will begin in September on a four-star venue in the city centre which will hold up to 100 bedrooms.
The gothic Jerome and Carlisle Buildings will be transformed as part of the new hotel, which will sit directly opposite the Shankly Hotel on Victoria Street.
Memorabilia from the Goodison Park icon’s career will be displayed in the new hotel, which has been given the blessing of his daughter and granddaughter.
Numerous restaurants, bars and an events space for weddings will be included.
It means football fans on both sides of Stanley Park will be able to stay in what is said to be part of plans for a world-first ‘Football Quarter’ in Liverpool city centre.
Melanie Prentice, Dixie’s granddaughter, said: “The Dixie Dean hotel cements my grandfather’s status as a footballing icon, and I couldn’t be prouder of the amazing plans for this hotel.
“Dixie was great friends with Bill Shankly. They had an enduring friendship despite representing rival teams, so it’s good to see them commemorated side by side.
“It means their legends will live on.”
Signature Living founder Lawrence Kenwright added: “This project will help further regenerate what was, until recently, a forgotten corner of the city centre.
“It’s now thriving, with top hotels, restaurants and bars.
“We expect our planned ‘Football Quarter’ to create hundreds of jobs, attract further investment into Liverpool and boost this brilliant city’s tourism offer.”