New lease of life for former Knowsley wildflower site
Third sector support organisation One Knowsley is to transform a site in the borough that was previously home to the National Wildflower Centre
An infrastructure support body for the third sector in Knowsley, has acquired the Courtyard and surrounding buildings at Court Hey Park in Huyton.
One Knowsley has unveiled plans to transform the site, previously part of the former National Wildflower Centre, into its new headquarters and a community hub. It was acquired in an asset transfer from Knowsley Council with support from Livv Investment.
As well as One Knowsley’s new headquarters, the buildings and grounds, total more than 5,500 sq ft. They will be used for activity to support, develop and deliver the activities of the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector within the borough creating a resource for local residents and the wider population.
Working with strategic partners, Knowsley Council and One Knowsley will lead a renaissance of the site in partnership with local groups and business community offering space for activities, meetings, workshops as well as welcoming the 20,000 visitors to the annual Knowsley Flower Show in 2022.
Racheal Jones, chief executive, One Knowsley, said: “After a period of growth for One Knowsley and building on the impact of our work and role within the borough, Court Hey Courtyard offers a fantastic opportunity to not only meet the growing needs of our workforce but to meet the needs of the wider sector.
“Our vision is to create a vibrant new hub for community events and social activities, and a place for the people of Knowsley to be proud of. We are committed to developing a plan for the site over the coming months, one that includes our stakeholders and the local community who it will serve.”
Court Hey Park will boast a new heating system and LED lighting set throughout, along with solar panels fitted to the roof. One Knowsley’s investment in reducing its carbon footprint will reduce the annual energy consumption of its buildings by approximately 180,000 Kwh per annum.