A powerful new chapter in the story of a historic public park is unveiled today (Friday 9 May).
Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police and partners have come together to celebrate the success of a community-led project that is transforming one of the city’s most well-loved green spaces – the Mystery Park.
At the heart of the transformation is Community Corner — a once-overgrown passage now revitalised with planting, artwork, and a new community bench.
The space has quickly become a symbol of connection and healing, especially for older residents who had previously felt isolated or avoided that part of the park.
Funded through the Hotspot Response Fund, the scheme brought together residents and local recovery charity Damian John Kelly House (DJK) to tackle safety concerns and build a stronger sense of community around the park and surrounding neighbourhood.
Merseyside Police and the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, received funding from the Home Office to deter serious violence and antisocial behaviour in identified hotspot areas. This is supported by increased high-visibility foot patrols across Merseyside.
A new short film capturing the project’s journey premiered at a special event, showcasing the collective efforts that have helped reduce crime, promote wellbeing, and reimagine the park as a welcoming, safer space for all.
Highlights of the Mystery transformation project have included:
• A series of sold-out evening sessions exploring themes on male identity, violence, and recovery
• Collaborative clean-up and regeneration of the park
• Local school children planting daffodils in the “Hope Blooms” garden
• A new public artwork celebrating community and belongin
• Theatrical performances addressing knife crime and exploitation, delivered to pupils and parents
Thanks to the work of police and partners, there has been significant reductions in both serious violent crime and antisocial behaviour during 2024/25. The project supports key priorities in Liverpool City Council’s Council Plan, including community safety, public health and wellbeing, and building trust through meaningful local engagement.
Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, said:
“This project is more than tackling crime, it’s about listening to our community, shining a light on stories of resilience, and creating spaces where people feel safe, seen and supported.
“From local charity to school pupils and park users, the people of Wavertree have come together in ways that will leave a lasting legacy.“
Emily Spurrell, Merseyside Police Commissioner said: “It’s been brilliant to see how our Hotspot Policing Fund has been instrumental in transforming this part of Wavertree. Residents told us how Mystery Park has been plagued by antisocial behaviour and crime, so I’m delighted to hear that we are already seeing the issues they face reducing, leading to an increased sense of safety and well-being among the people who live here.
“The collaborative efforts of Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council, Damian John Kelly House and local residents are not only revitalising this space but serve as a testament to the power of our communities; proving that together we can reduce crime, improve safety and foster a sense of pride among residents, all of which creates lasting change.”
Constable Jo Stevens, from Merseyside Police’s Problem-Orientated Policing team, said: “A key part of our Hotspot Policing initiative is deploying officers where they can most effectively prevent crime and antisocial behaviour. But my role also focuses on listening to communities and identifying opportunities for long-term problem solving – such as working with local residents and organisations to address the root causes of crime.
“Through this collaborative project in Wavertree, we’ve not only seen a significant reduction in crime, but we’ve also invested in safer community facilities that residents will benefit from for years to come.
Jacquie Johnston-Lynch, Head of Service, DJK House – Vitality Homes said: “Being part of this project has meant a lot to our residents. It’s helped them feel included, useful and proud of the work they’ve done. They’ve helped make the park a better place – and it’s helped them too.“
