Sawpit Park

Sawpit Park was once a woodland called Paradise Wood and belonged to the Molyneux-Seel family. Within this woodland were two pits and it is possibly from these that the name Sawpit was derived - a pit where logs are sawed for use. Next to the woodland was the house and gardens of Huyton Hey Manor Farm and opposite was the ancient moated hall, Huyton Hey Manor on Hall Lane. Taking a journey around the design, an intricate maze of footpaths defines and links all the elements within the Park. The original rockery was extended and re-shaped to form a 'Stone Castle' to provide a view over the 'Moat' - an area of wildflower water meadow created as a solution to flooding. Local school children chose these design elements to reflect the moated Huyton Hey Manor that once stood opposite the site. Similarly, the 'Magic Orchard' with its spiral of pear trees and the 'Flower Maze' also reflect previous usage of the Park, while the amphitheatre provides an area for informal play. Local children were able to express their artistic abilities through the design of gates and fencing and of the mosaic in the flower maze. The children both chose and worked with a local artist in creating this unique feature.

Work on the ground began in February 1999 with the removal of the diseased or damaged trees. The main redevelopment works took place between March and July. 46 trees, 5,500 shrubs, grasses and tall herbaceous plants and wildflower plugs were planted into the design. Not since the 1960's has such an ambitious scheme been attempted in a park in Knowsley. The park was opened on 24th September 1999 at an event involving the local schools.

A ten year management plan has been drawn up to maintain the momentum and dynamic development of the park and sustain the community involvement. An innovative and quality landscape has been established by working in partnership with the community and Huyton Single Regeneration Budget (SRB). Good design has also provided the opportunity to demonstrate excellence in horticulture and parks management. The redevelopment of Sawpit Park has helped to forge new working relationships that will benefit current and future developments of public open space. It is a park the local people can be proud of.

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Road Directions

From the M62 junction 6 take Cronton Road (A5080) towards Huyton. Take first right into Wilson Road and continue to traffic lights at cross-roads. Turn right into Hall Lane and then first left into Sawpit Lane. The park is on the left.

Public Transport Directions

Sawpit Park is a short walk from both Huyton Rail Station and Huyton Bus Terminal. Take Huyton Hey Road to the junction with Hall Lane/St. John's Road/Wilson Road and turn left into Hall Lane. Sawpit Park is on the left hand side