Families in Speke have a new reason to get outdoors thanks to a unique woodland play trail delivered by Liverpool City Council in partnership with All Saints Church in Speke.
The project, funded through Section 106 contributions, has transformed the woodland surrounding the church and cemetery into an interactive space designed to encourage play, exploration, and community connection.
Local children played a central role in shaping the design, with ideas contributed by the School Council of Stockton Wood Primary School. Headteacher Justine Clovis and Reverend Phil Saltmarsh, Rector of All Saints Church, were instrumental in championing the project and fostering strong neighbourhood involvement.
The trail features bespoke carvings and furniture created by Andrew Burgess, a chainsaw craftsman from Knutsford, and was brought to life by Elaine Cresswell, landscape architect at reShaped Ltd. Key contributors included Jackie Evans, Community Streetscene Officer for South Liverpool, and Councillor Mary Rasmussen, Elected Member for Speke.
The official opening took place on Thursday, 13 November, with pupils from Stockton Wood Primary joining Reverend Saltmarsh and Councillor Rasmussen to cut the ceremonial ribbon. Around 100 residents attended the celebration, marking a new chapter for this cherished green space.
This project is a shining example of how collaboration between local authorities, schools, community organisations, and faith groups can create inclusive, welcoming spaces for everyone.
Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, said: “This fantastic new trail is a brilliant example of community collaboration in action.
“It’s wonderful to see local children shaping the space and families coming together to enjoy nature right on their doorstep.”
Councillor Mary Rasmussen said: “Wow! How cool is our wonderful Woodland Trail? Well done to everyone involved, but a special thank you must go to our children from Stockton Wood School who came up with fantastic ideas, especially the hidden den for Mr Fox.”
