Construction Approved for Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre

Liverpool is set to honor the late comedian Sir Ken Dodd with the construction of a £15 million Happiness Centre, following planning approval from the city council. This four-storey building will serve as a permanent home for Dodd's archive and will host various comedy-related events, workshops, and performances, celebrating his legacy and the city's rich comedic heritage. The centre, located adjacent to the Royal Court Theatre, is expected to break ground in 2025 and open in 2027, coinciding with what would have been Dodd's 100th birthday. Lady Anne Dodd expressed her excitement about the project, emphasizing its significance as a legacy for her late husband. The design will include a giant sculpture inspired by Dodd's famous tickling stick, and the centre aims to promote happiness and well-being through comedy. The initiative is supported by Liverpool's Royal Court, The Comedy Trust, and The Sir Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation.