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A community-led safety project in Merseyside is transforming one of the city’s most well-loved green spaces – the Mystery Park.
A joint initiative of Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and partners, 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.
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 belonging
- 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.
“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.”
Constable Jo Stevens, from Merseyside Police’s Problem-Orientated Policing team.
Emily Spurrell, Merseyside Police Commissioner, added: “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.
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