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Southport Civic Society objects to £10m Town Hall gardens regeneration plans
Overview
Southport's Civic Society has announced it will object to Sefton Council's £10m plan to regenerate the Southport Town Hall gardens into a family-friendly performance space. The project, inspired by the three girls killed in a knife attack in the town in 2024, involves demolishing two pavilions, historic lighting designed by Thomas Mawson, and the Diana fountain. While the civic society argues the area only needs maintenance rather than total redevelopment and has concerns over public consultation, Sefton Council leader Marion Atkinson defended the extensive public feedback process and stated that all views will be considered.
Key points
- Southport Civic Society is objecting to Sefton Council's £10m regeneration plans for the Town Hall gardens.
- The proposed project was inspired by the three girls killed in a 2024 knife attack in Southport, with backing from the government and local authorities.
- The plans involve demolishing two pavilions, early 20th-century historic lighting by architect Thomas Mawson, balustrades, and a memorial fountain for Diana, Princess of Wales.
- The Civic Society argues the current site requires better maintenance and repair rather than complete demolition and redevelopment.
- Sefton Council leader Marion Atkinson defended the consultation process, stating that extensive feedback had been gathered from children and residents before the consultation closed in October 2026.