As part of the ongoing improvement works to Hesketh Park, Sefton Council is seeking to appoint a partner to take on a lease of the Conservatory building.
What is the process?
To understand the types of interest from organisations that could make use of this exciting opportunity, the Council is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI).
Who is eligible to express interest?
The Council welcomes EOIs from a organisations that can:
- Present a clear and realistic proposal for how they intend to use the Conservatory.
- Demonstrate capacity and commitment to maintaining and caring for this Grade II listed building.
- Show transparent governance, financial stability and a clear business model.
- Provide proof of experience in managing services, premises, or similar responsibilities.
- Show a clear plan for how their use of the conservatory will benefit the Park and the wider community.
What is the process for expressing interest?
Interested organisation should complete the EOI form and email it to property.management@sefton.gov.uk by 5pm on ___ 2026.
Following submission, the Council will assess EOIs against:
- Suitability of the proposed use
- Alignment with Council priorities
What work is taking place on the Conservatory?
The Council is working closely with the Marks Family Trustees and The Hesketh Park Heritage Group to plan and manage the restoration and improvement works to the park to ensure the donation is appropriately allocated.
The planned restoration works to the Conservatory currently include the following:
- Drainage to be restored and improved.
- Internal floor to be restored.
- Essential structural work to the metal frame.
- Cast iron columns to be restored.
- Removal of corrosion.
- Failing paint to be removed and frame repainted.
- Metal glazing frames and glass to be restored.
- Clerestory windows to be restored back to working condition.Canopy to be restored.
- Doors to be restored.
Restrictions on use
Due to the Hesketh Park Café having exclusive catering rights to the park, the sale of food and drink to the general public cannot be permitted from the Conservatory.
However, for uses of the Conservatory as an events venue, the sale of food and drink would be permitted to event attendees, for consumption within the area detailed in the attached plan.
What happens next?
EOIs will be assessed for eligibility, asset suitability, and alignment with Council priorities.
Costs
Applicants are responsible for assessing repair liabilities, utility upgrades, and ongoing operational costs. The Council does not subsidise running costs or capital investment post-transfer.
Applications and support
For any advice and support in completing the EOI, please contact property.management@sefton.gov.uk
To express interest in the Hesketh Park Conservatory, please complete this EOI form submit it to property.management@sefton.gov.uk by 5pm on ___ 2026. (link)