Liverpool's Lib Dem council has just finished a massive consultation into how Newsham Park should be transformed. 

Businesses, residents, children and church groups were asked what improvements they would like to see and what would encourage them to use the Victorian park.

Ideas included a new visitor pavilion, a brand new Splash Park where children could enjoy sprinklers, showers, bubble jets and sprays in a safe and secure area.  

Chair of the Newsham Park Forum, Kensington & Fairfield Lib Dem Councillor Frank Doran, said: "Newsham Park is set to see a regeneration package that will increase the numbers of people using the park and also preserve its heritage. "

"It made sense to ask local people what they want and to help us decide on the park's future.  Of course, we are at very early stages, and before the work can be set in stone we will have to find funding.  However, even at this early time it's important to stress that no green space will be lost as a result of the work"

"I think it has been essential to consult with the local community before taking the first steps to improve one of our most historic and valued parks," added Frank.

Other proposals include a boulevard where all the original footpaths will be restored with seating along the paths.  The lake will also become a focal point with new fishing platforms and plans for more wildlife in the area.

Residents also called for a community garden to provide a colourful landscape where visitors can relax and enjoy.

The city council's executive member for the environment and heritage, Lib Dem Councillor Berni Turner, said: "Our parks and green spaces are an invaluable asset and we want to do everything we can to encourage more people to make the most of the havens on their doorsteps.

"You only have to look at all the work taking place in Sefton Park to see we take the subject of parks very seriously.  We would like to see all of the city's green spaces reach their full potential.

"We are at the very early stages with Newsham Park, but it's really encouraging residents have such wonderful ideas and it just goes to show that parks are still important and at the centre of the community."

The council has now drawn up plans based on the suggestions by the public.  

Local Councillor Richard Marbrow says: "It was important that we do not jeopardise the character of the park.  The aim is to put something together that is a local and city-wide attraction to increase the number of visitors and reduce anti-social behaviour.

"It was great that so may people took part, and we'd like to thank them for taking the time to contribute."

The next step is to explore different funding opportunities from the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage.  

Newsham Park is a 120 acre Victorian park which opened in 1868.  It was the first individual work of the famous landscape architect Edward Kemp and is Grade II listed.

The park contains two large lakes which are popular with local anglers.