A security guard who has watched over one of Liverpool's most iconic buildings has told the ECHO of his excitement that it is now being brought back to life.
The Martins Bank Building at number 4 Water Street opened in the 1930s as the head office of the now defunct Martins Bank and was taken over by Barclays until 2009, when the branch closed.
There were rumours the stunning space would become Liverpool's first ever five star hotel, but when plans did not get off the ground it was acquired by specialist investor Kinrise in 2021.
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Tommy Keith told the ECHO he has been a security guard on the building for 34 years.
He said: "Over the years it's gone from virtually full to empty. It's nice seeing life being breathed back into it slowly but surely."
Kinrise is currently carrying out work to transform the upper floors of the building into 140,000 sq ft of office space, while the main banking hall will be a restaurant.
Tommy is hoping to have a role when the building enters its latest era. He added: "It would be lovely. If you're not in it you don't win it!"
He also shared his favourite spot in Martins Bank with the ECHO. "I have a real passion for the building. When I came here, it was a low key role.
"The building is so beautiful. The boardroom is something else, nothing in this city matches it."
The stunning boardroom with its decorative ceiling has unmatched views across the city from a number of angles, including a unique view of the town hall.
It is uncertain what will become of the eight floor space, but it is understood it could potentially be flexible workspace or even space for events.
Tommy added: "Events here would be amazing."
Kinrise specialise in revitalising historic buildings and are working hard to retain and restore many of the building's original features.
Completion is earmarked for 2024 and once finished, the building will provide about 140,000 sq ft of office space. The main banking hall is also being transformed into a new luxury restaurant.
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