Rare archive photographs taken between 1980 and 1996 offer a nostalgic look back at life in Knowsley during a period of significant change. The images, held in the archives courtesy of Mirrorpix, capture everyday family life, local activities, new buildings and regeneration across the borough.
A Changing Borough
The Metropolitan Borough of Knowsley was formed in 1974, bringing together the districts of Cronton, Halewood, Huyton, Kirkby, Knowsley Village, Prescot, Tarbock and Whiston, along with Cantril Farm, which is now known as Stockbridge Village.
Throughout the 1980s, towns across the borough experienced significant change and development, marking important milestones while also saying goodbye to familiar parts of their history.
Decade of Milestones
Among the highlights of the decade, Ford's Halewood plant celebrated its 25th anniversary, while Prescot Museum opened its doors for the first time on Church Street. Cantril Farm underwent a major transformation, with Stockbridge Village Trust Ltd established to oversee the two-thirds of the estate that fell under Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council's responsibility. The area was subsequently renamed Stockbridge Village.
Meanwhile, Kirkby's J & A Cinema closed in 1982, marking the end of an era for local cinema-goers.
Into the 1990s
The pace of change continued into the 1990s, with further investment, regeneration and new developments taking place across the borough. In 1994, Liverpool Astronomical Society's Pex Hill Observatory was officially opened by Dr Patrick Moore CBE, creating a new landmark for the area.
Kirkby Town Centre also underwent regeneration, including the development of Kirkby Library, while two new installations were erected in Newton Gardens. Elsewhere, Whiston Railway Station and Knowsley Cemetery on Fox's Bank Lane opened during the decade.
The gallery features 40 images, including a 1990 visit to pets' corner at Knowsley Safari Park, where "Tiny" the pygmy goat was an instant success when 800 children paid a visit. Pictured with Tiny are pupils from Ronald House School, Crosby, along with their helper, Gina Stephens, on a day out courtesy of the Variety Club of Great Britain.
