Exciting plans have now been submitted to transform Halewood’s Grace Park (Wood Road field) into a new community park delivered to Green Flag standard, with improved sports facilities, play areas and upgrades across the site.
Grace Park (Wood Road Field) is a valued local green space, however, it isn’t well connected to Halewood Town Centre which can make it harder for people to reach and enjoy. In addition, parts of the site regularly flood after heavy rain, rendering them unusable; the play equipment is tired and needs replacing; and the existing sports pitches have far from ideal supporting accommodation.
The proposed multi-million-pound investment will completely transform the space into a modern, vibrant and inclusive Green Flag quality park, right in the heart of Halewood.
The planned investment will open up the park, allowing pedestrian access from both Leathers Lane and Wood Road and providing a through route for pedestrians and cyclists alongside:
Beautiful new green spaces
- A colourful new garden area with new tree planting and plenty of seating areas to enjoy the surroundings (existing memorial benches will be retained);
- Retention of the informal green space to allow everyone space to relax, have a picnic, walk the dog or take part in activities; and
- A welcoming plaza that connects directly to Halewood Shopping Centre and can be used as focal point for community activities, including celebrations and remembrance.
More nature and wildlife
- Plans to plant a wide variety of native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and ornamental plants to create a more vibrant, wildlife‑friendly green space;
- New ponds, rain gardens and natural drainage features to help manage flooding so that the park remains available throughout the year; and
- Better views and more attractive landscaped areas across the site.
Big improvements for sports
- New all-weather football pitch and mini soccer pitch, to allow year-round use on a reduced, manageable footprint;
- The new pitches will be complemented by a modern clubhouse with changing rooms, toilets, a café and social space for community activities;
- Acoustic fencing will be introduced to reduce noise for nearby houses;
- Facilities will be operated by Halewood Town Junior Football Club, ensuring long-term community benefit;
- Recognising the reduction in the area of Grace Park/Wood Road Field used for formal sporting activities (currently football), alternative and additional provision will be created elsewhere within the Halewood South Ward through a further £250,000 investment at New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, to bring the grassed areas at the centre up to formal playing pitch standard and available for community use.
New play facilities
- Secure accessible play area for younger children featuring brand new equipment to encourage all types of play;
- A dedicated youth zone with play equipment designed for kids aged 8-13 to enjoy; and
- An adventure trail connecting both spaces to encourage children to explore, be active and try new experiences.
Improved access for everyone
- New walking and cycling paths linking different parts of Halewood together with safe, off-road routes
- A new car park with accessible bays and EV charging, to reduce congestion during sporting events;
- Clear signage across the park, linking this site to other parts of Halewood; and
- The installation of boundary fencing to ensure the park remains a car free environment.
To view the plans in more detail head to the Council’s planning portal and search for Grace Park.
£30m investment in Halewood
Knowsley Council secured £15.3m UK Government funding and an additional £2.5m from the City Region Sustainable Travel Settlement to invest in Halewood. In addition, the Council has secured around £13m in Section 106 contributions from developers delivering the East of Halewood housing development. This investment is already being ploughed into improved services and facilities in Halewood, meaning that over £30 million will be invested in Halewood in the coming years.