Community-led project to regenerate Mystery Park reaches completion

A transformative new chapter in the story of one of Liverpool’s best-loved public parks was unveiled today (Friday 9 May), as city leaders and local residents gathered to celebrate the success of a powerful community-led regeneration project at Mystery Park.

The centrepiece of the revitalisation is Community Corner — a previously neglected and overgrown pathway that has been completely transformed with vibrant planting, public artwork, and a welcoming new bench space for residents to gather, reflect and connect.

The project has already had a tangible impact, particularly among older residents who had previously felt disconnected from the park. The new space now serves as a symbol of belonging, wellbeing, and renewal.

Funded through the Hotspot Response Fund, the initiative was delivered in partnership with Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, and local recovery charity Damian John Kelly House (DJK). It aimed to address safety concerns and strengthen community ties in and around the park, which had previously been identified as an area vulnerable to antisocial behaviour and serious violence.

The scheme forms part of a wider regional approach to crime prevention, with Merseyside Police and Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell receiving Home Office funding to support increased visibility and patrols in local hotspot areas.

A new short film capturing the journey and personal impact of the Mystery Park project premiered at a special launch event today, showcasing the collective power of partnership in fostering safer, healthier public spaces.

Key achievements of the Mystery Park transformation include:

• A sold-out programme of community discussions exploring male identity, violence, and recovery
• Collaborative clean-up days to regenerate neglected parkland
• “Hope Blooms” planting events led by local schoolchildren
• New public artwork celebrating unity and belonging
• Live theatre performances on knife crime and exploitation, delivered to local pupils and families

The initiative has been credited with contributing to significant reductions in violent crime and antisocial behaviour across 2024/25, underscoring the importance of community engagement in building safer neighbourhoods.

This project supports key goals within Liverpool City Council’s Council Plan, including promoting community safety, enhancing public wellbeing, and fostering trust through inclusive local action.

As Mystery Park continues to evolve, Community Corner now stands as a lasting testament to what can be achieved when residents, public services, and grassroots organisations work together to create safer, more welcoming places for all.

Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, said:

“This project is more than tackling crime, it’s about listening to our community, shining a light on stories of resilience,   and creating spaces where people feel safe, seen and supported.

“From local charity to school pupils and park users, the people of Wavertree have come together in ways that will leave a lasting legacy.“

Emily Spurrell, Merseyside Police Commissioner said:

“It’s been brilliant to see how our Hotspot Policing Fund has been instrumental in transforming this part of Wavertree. Residents told us how Mystery Park has been plagued by antisocial behaviour and crime, so I’m delighted to hear that we are already seeing the issues they face reducing, leading to an increased sense of safety and well-being among the people who live here.

“The collaborative efforts of Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council, Damian John Kelly House and local residents are not only revitalising this space but serve as a testament to the power of our communities; proving that together we can reduce crime, improve safety and foster a sense of pride among residents, all of which creates lasting change.”

Find out more information on the Liverpool City Council website.

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