Purpose

To
brief Cabinet Member on the outcome of a recent public consultation
and update on the development of a potentially significant
improvement scheme for the park, adoption of the vision and draft
scale and scope of future works and including approval for seeking
external funds for the first phase/s of the scheme.

Decision

Decision(s): That
 
1.   
the outcome of the pre-development works completed
in 2023 including the public consultation undertaken, and the
specialist architectural surveys undertaken on the buildings and
other structures in the park be noted
 
2.   
Following previous approval, the concept of
developing a new major scheme for Botanic Gardens, Churchtown be
supported and the outline Vision for the park as set out in this
report be agreed
 
3.   
Officers be authorised to start to develop more
details and plans for the park
 
4.   
Officers be authorised to seek match funding options
for external funding bids for the first phases of the future
scheme
 
5.   
Officers be requested to set up a Project Board to
more formally oversee the projects development, and ultimate
delivery (to include Councillors, volunteer groups, and other
stakeholders, as well as officers)
 
6.   
Regular updates on progress be requested as the
scheme develops and prior to formal funding bids being
placed
 

Reasons for the Decision(s):
 
Botanic Gardens in Southport is
a nationally important park and recognised as such by its inclusion
on the Historic England’s 'Register of Parks and Gardens of
Special Historic Interest.’

 
The park itself is in a
declining condition with heritage features degenerating and as a
result of the parks condition and required maintenance, this has
meant North Meols Conservation Area has been placed on the national
‘Heritage at Risk’ Register.
 
This report proposes to seek
investment and improvements in the park, in the context and outcome
of the recently completed public consultation exercise.

 

 
Alternative Options
Considered and Rejected: (including any
Risk Implications)
 
If no investment in the park is
undertaken the quality of the park will continue to decline over
coming years, leading to increased reputational (and financial
risk) to the authority.