Support Grows for Southport Memorial Garden Plans

The families of three girls who lost their lives in a Southport attack have expressed their gratitude for the community's support regarding plans for a memorial garden at the town hall. The proposal aims to regenerate the area in front of the town hall and Atkinson art gallery, featuring a landscaped performance space dedicated to the girls.

Approximately 300 individuals participated in a consultation organized by Sefton Council, which received positive feedback despite some objections. Southport MP Patrick Hurley noted the overwhelming support for the project, while the families highlighted their appreciation for the engagement from local schoolchildren during a consultation event.

While the plans have faced criticism from the Southport Civic Society over the removal of historic features, Hurley defended the project, stating that many existing elements are not original. He emphasized that renewal can lead to improvement and reassured those with concerns that the new designs would be sympathetic to the existing landscape.