BACKGROUND

Overlooking Scarborough’s seashore, these Grade II listed gardens had once been cutting edge entertainment in their day. Although fondly regarded, and still retaining much of their originally charm, they had sadly fallen into disrepair and the large crowds were gone.

THE CONCEPT

OOBE was responsible for preparing a landscape masterplan and supporting information for Heritage Lottery Funding Parks for People Stage 1 bid for the gardens. Development of the masterplan involved extensive consultation with key stakeholders including Friends of the Park; Scarborough Borough Council Regeneration, Estates and Conservation Officers; Scarborough Archaeological & Historical Society; English Heritage, the local community and interest groups. OOBE sought to rejuvenate and reinstate the gardens to their position as a community place to go, to draw back a myriad of users to the open spaces for health, relaxation and enjoyment, linking back to the original purpose of the spa and gardens.

RESULTS

Proposals were therefore founded on the theme of health and sought to provide entertainment and leisure, revenue for the gardens, education and training opportunities, and horticulture innovation. The masterplan included an array of contemporary features such as play areas and a new link to the promenade, that complemented the historic features of the park. Heritage Lottery Funding was successfully awarded at the end of 2016. The rejuvenated gardens now draw a wide range of visitors and residents back to enjoy, relax and socialise. This fresh approach to a formal garden has reinstated them as a diamond in the crown of the Yorkshire coast.

TESTIMONIAL

“Thanks for all your effort, it would not have been possible without your help and creative input setting us on the right path to success, thank you very much.”

Stewart Rowe, Principal Coastal Officer, Scarborough Borough Council