Luton’s first pocket park has marked its first anniversary, with council CEO Robin Porter saying the success of the Hat Gardens in its first year has shown Lutonians how the town centre is being rejuvenated.
The £1.9 million project, led by Luton Council, transformed a derelict old car park on Bute Street and unveiling the hidden, culverted River Lea, which will also be further revealed in the coming years by Luton Town Football Club’s new stadium development at the nearby Power Court.
The ‘Open Lea’ project began in 2021 and after the park officially opened in May 2023, with a lively launch festival featuring live music, entertainment and food stalls, it has become a vibrant community hub, hosting over 30 diverse events.
From morning yoga sessions to mini-concerts and outdoor cinema screenings, the park has demonstrated its versatility and strong appeal to local residents, town centre workers and visitors to Luton.
The park also became home to the famous pink flamingos, bringing back fond memories for those who used to visit The Arndale shopping centre during the 70s-90s, before it became The Mall.
Since its opening, footfall in the town centre has experienced an upward shift, with 17 out of 20 weeks seeing an increase compared to the previous year, a contrast to the downward trend experienced earlier in the year.
A brief resident survey also revealed that 77% of respondents felt more positive about the town centre after visiting an event in the park.
In November 2023, Hat Gardens won the ‘Project of the Year’ (under £10m) award at the National Building Construction Awards, recognising Luton-based construction company and project contractor Ryebridge.
Luton Council recently announced an line-up of free, family-friendly events for the ‘Summer in Town’ 2024 programme, set to take place in Hat Gardens and Market Hill, including captivating street performances, engaging workshops, outdoor film screenings, storytelling sessions and more.
Mr Porter, Chief Executive of Luton Council, said: “The success of Hat Gardens has shown what’s possible for Luton’s town centre. With more exciting plans ahead, we’re committed to creating the vibrant, welcoming, and engaging town centre our residents have asked for, which will benefit locals, visitors, and businesses alike.”
On the first anniversary of the pocket park, Mr Porter added: “It’s been a pleasure to see Hat Gardens become a cherished community space, enjoyed by countless residents and visitors.
“As we celebrate its first anniversary, we not only recognise the progress made in rejuvenating our town centre but also look forward to the further improvements underway, guided by our Town Centre Masterplan.
“Other developments in progress include the recently approved planning for the re-development of the site of the Bute Street Shoppers car park, with proposals for new homes, a multi-purpose performance and community area, a food court, and commercial space.
“Combined with an array of events planned for 2024, we’re committed to offering a more diverse range of activities, benefiting local businesses and allowing residents to enjoy a more vibrant town centre.”
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