Earlier this year we consulted with you to get your feedback about transforming the green space facing the new Lidl on St Mary’s Road in Garston village. In partnership with Culture Liverpool, we’re looking at ways to turn it into something that will benefit the whole community.
Asking local people what they think about life in Garston is a crucial part of helping us to plan for the future. The survey asked you about your general perceptions of community life and how the green space project could improve the area.
Survey findings
The survey was conducted online and in-person at Garston Market. 49 people participated. We received the most responses from residents who have lived in Garston for more than 20 years (57%).
Of those who took part:
- 8% have lived in Gaston for less than a year
- Only 2% have lived in the area for 1-5 years
- 22% have lived in Garston for 5-10 years
- 10% of participants have lived in Garston for 10-20 years
- 57% of participants have lived in the area for more than 20 years
The survey questions were designed in line with Culture Liverpool to get people’s views on community life and their most and least favourite parts of the area.
The things people most liked about the area included:
- Garston Park
- Garston market
- Transport links
- Community spirit
- Accessibility to shops
The biggest challenges and things people dislike about the area included:
- Anti-social behaviour and youth disturbances
- Insufficient parking spaces
- Litter and dog waste
One question focused on describing Garston to someone who has never visited. We’ve picked out some common themes:
- There was a large focus on ‘community’ with 11 mentions – small, close-knit but in need of investment
- Comments included the village is old and needs rejuvenation
Regarding the green space project, we wanted to find out how you think the land could be best utilised. We asked you to select as many options as you like, to get an indication of the different options to improve the green space.
- Community garden/growing space came out on top as the most popular option with 30 votes
- Using the space for outdoor events, was second with 21 votes
- Introducing a recreational space into the heart of the village received 18 votes
- Creating a seating area, I.e., benches or picnic tables on the land received 15 votes
- Using the greenspace to display public artwork received 12 votes
Next steps
Thank you to everyone who completed the survey, and to all those who helped to encourage others to do so.
The survey results are being used to formulate an action plan on how the space will be used and what will most benefit the local community.
Both Culture Liverpool and Groundwork are working on designs that include elements of what you would like to see in the green space location. Both designs will be presented to Garston residents at a community consultation this summer to receive final feedback before the work begins.
Keep an eye on our social media pages for details on the consultation.