New images reveal how Southport's Town Hall Gardens could look after being transformed into a botanical garden and performance space. The artistic renditions have been released as part of the second stage of Sefton Council's public consultation into the regeneration of the gardens on Lord Street, which ends on Monday, October 5.
£10m project funding and background
The £10m project was announced after the gardens became a focal point for the community following the Southport stabbings in July 2024. Three young girls, Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, were killed during the attack, aged six, seven, and nine-years-old respectively.
Funded by central government, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Sefton Council, the project aims to create a welcoming and safe multi-use space for the community. It would provide space for performances, community events, play and relaxation, while reflecting characteristics of the Southport and Sefton coast.
Public consultation and design features
People are now being asked to comment on the designs before the council submits a planning application and finalises proposals. The designs also consider accessibility and security, as well as opportunities for community gardening with local schools to celebrate Southport's botanical identity.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said: “With this latest regeneration we want to ensure that local people feel it belongs to them, for them.
“It should be a safe and inclusive place where families can spend time together, children can play and our communities can come together for performances, events and celebrations.”
Community response and next steps
The Secretary of State for Communities, Angela Rayner, said: “These gardens have been at the heart of the community’s efforts to rebuild and reconnect, while honouring and remembering Alice, Bebe and Elsie, and all survivors, with love and solidarity across the town.
“These plans will help protect that spirit for generations to come, ensuring the gardens remain a special place for children and families in the local community to enjoy.”
Following the end of the consultation in September, responses will be summarised and published before proposals are finalised for a planning application for the project. Members of the public can view the designs and complete the consultations online.
