Warrington moves forward with garden regeneration plans

Warrington Borough Council is moving forward with its plans to breathe new life into Marshall Gardens in the town centre.

A business plan is being developed to turn the site, situated opposite the cenotaph at Bridgefoot, into a Memorial Garden.

Marshall Gardens are named after Hon Alderman Edward Marshall M.B.E. an influential and respected member of the community, who died in 1983 at the age of 103.

The gardens, which were once a picturesque focal point in the town centre are now in need of refurbishment and the council is working with community figures – including Lisa Billing, the mother of Private Daniel Wade, from Latchford, who was killed fighting in Afghanistan in 2012 – to move forward with the rejuvenation plans.

Plans being discussed include transforming the site into a vibrant, sensory memorial garden, honouring Edward Marshall’s efforts as Chairman of the Food Control Committee and creating a quiet place where people can sit, reflect and remember those who have fallen in war, as well as their own ‘heroes’ who hold a place in their heart.

There are also plans for the gardens to play an education role by helping children and young people learn about the history of the war and the sacrifices made.

The programme of works being developed would include the short-term, clean-up of the gardens.

Under the plans, community groups would be engaged to work together on the upkeep and maintenance of the gardens.

‘I’m really pleased that these plans, to breathe new life into Marshall Gardens, are moving forward,’ said cabinet member for leisure and community, Cllr Tony Higgins.

‘The gardens, in their position opposite the cenotaph, and with their views of the River Mersey, have real potential to become a haven of peace and reflection.

‘We will be working closely with the community to develop these plans, which aim to bring a green, town centre asset back into use and support the ongoing regeneration of our town centre,’ added Cllr Higgins.

Photo Credit – Jill Wellington (Pixabay)