A new park and gardens in Scunthorpe town centre has been officially opened – the first part of major transformation plans backed by Government cash.
The new park and gardens – complete with ultra-modern stonework, weathered steel and a dramatic green makeover – has transformed the former Church Square part of town.
It will complement the soon-to-be-started revolutionary new business hub being built nearby, and with new trees, grass, plants, fountains and seating areas, the park provides a perfect place to relax while visiting the town.
It is ideally located next to Scunthorpe Central, the visual arts centre, the University Technology College and only a stone’s throw from the town’s shops and facilities.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This fantastic space will be enjoyed by the students at the UTC, the visitors to the amazing visual arts centre and the many people who live and work nearby. It is only just the beginning, however.
“The opening of the square is a landmark moment ahead of the rest of the incredible developments coming into town – this is just the beginning of a major programme which will invigorate and reignite the town centre – offering people many more reasons to be here and supporting the hundreds of independent traders.
“We also plan to rename the area in memory of Queen Elizabeth II – with an application being submitted to Buckingham Palace this week.”
The park was officially opened by Scunthorpe MP Holly Mumby-Croft on Saturday, 24 September 2022 with representatives from the Towns Fund Board in attendance.
The park and gardens, completed by Esh Construction, is part of the Government’s national £3.6bn Towns Fund initiative and forms part of North Lincolnshire Council’s multi-million pound plans to re-invent Scunthorpe town centre.
Holly Mumby-Croft is a member of the Towns Fund Board. She said: “It is a pleasure to open the fantastic new public space and I am certain it will be enjoyed by families for many years to come.
“It has been a bit of journey but its amazing to be able to appreciate it in all its glory – I know a great deal of work has gone into getting hold of the materials and the people to get this over the line.
“The funding for this came from Government when we were deep in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic – showing confidence in the development plans the council had put forward and ensuring the economy was kick-started after the challenges that were presented.”
The modern space is designed to become the heartbeat of town centre communities, hosting public events and major celebrations like the Christmas lights switch on.
Alongside the opening was the popular Discover event that saw the town buzzing with hundreds of families enjoying interactive activities, fascinating science experiments and hands-on entertainment.
