Closure Threat to New Ferry Butterfly Park - Latest News

Wirral Borough Council takes Action to save New Ferry Butterfly Park

The Cabinet of Wirral Borough Council decided on 14th January to issue a Compulsory Purchase Order on the New Ferry Butterfly Park, to save it from closure by Brock plc. The process will start within the next few days, but takes some months to complete, especially if the owner appeals.

We will keep you informed on any progress.

The CPO is being issued on environmental and social grounds. The Park supports at least 397 species, including butterflies, moths, bees, spiders, shield bugs, pond life, and a long list of plants including two species of orchid. The social benefit has been shown by the willingness of people to sign the public petitions. Hilary Ash, Hon Conservation Officer, said "We are very grateful to everyone who has signed our petitions, and all the people who have made great efforts to collect signatures on behalf of the Park. The paper petition submitted to Wirral MBC exceeded 3300 signatures, and the e-petition over 1500. Thank you, everyone." Once the legal procedures have gone through, it is the intention of Wirral MC to sell or lease the Park to Cheshire Wildlife Trust, to continue as a nature reserve managed by the local community. Substantial donations have already been offered, and a public appeal for funds will be launched in the near future.

Over the last 16 years, the New Ferry Butterfly Park committee has raised over £24000 in grants and £3000 in donations, all to make the Park accessible for visitors, keep it secure and aid the wildlife.

The Butterfly Park currently has about 35 volunteers involved in various roles, including wardening, practical management, hosting educational and other groups, fund-raising and publicity. However, more volunteers are very welcome! Please contact Hilary Ash on 327 5923 or Paul Loughnane on 645 8937, or check the Wirral Wildlife website

We are at the top of the access road to Bebington station car park, off Bebington Road between Aldi and the railway bridge. Look for the brown tourist sign, open when we are.