Duke Street Park set for exciting upgrades including new mural, nature trail and improved play area

Visitors to Duke Street Park in Formby will soon notice a range of improvements as work continues on a major programme of upgrades designed to enhance the much loved community park.

One of the first completed improvements is a new pedestrian path running parallel to Duke Street. The widened pathway has been created to make it easier and safer for people walking through the park.

The new pedestrian path running parallel to Duke Street.

Another eye catching addition is a colourful new mural on the park’s changing room building. The artwork was created by local artist Holly Bushnell in collaboration with art students from Formby High School. Inspired by the area’s natural beauty, the mural celebrates the wildlife and coastal landscape that make Formby so special.

The mural is just one of several improvements planned for the park. Future upgrades will include a new nature trail featuring bug hotels and wildlife habitats to encourage biodiversity, as well as new equipment for the children’s play area, giving young visitors even more opportunities to play and explore.

Security is also being improved, with upgraded CCTV being installed throughout the park to help provide a safer environment for everyone.

The improvements are being delivered through a partnership between Sefton Council, local ward councillors, Formby Parish Council and local volunteers, who have all played an important role in developing the plans.

Funding for part of the project has come from Section 106 developer contributions allocated to Green Sefton following the Pinewood Park housing development. The same funding has already helped deliver significant improvements to the play area at Alt Road Park. Formby West and Formby East ward councillors have also contributed from their local ward budgets, alongside funding from Formby Parish Council.

Councillor Joanne Williams, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said:

“Parks are a precious resource for Sefton, both as places for people to meet and stay active, and as an important part of our natural landscape.”

“I’m delighted that Duke Street Park, which is such an important part of Formby, is receiving these improvements which are sure to be a big hit with residents and visitors.”

“It is great that the Section 106 funding secured from the Pinewood Park development has allowed some really exciting improvements to take place both here and at Alt Road Park, ensuring local people benefit from the investment.”

The improvements are expected to make Duke Street Park an even more welcoming place for families, walkers and wildlife, while helping to protect and enhance one of Formby’s most popular green spaces.