Future of centre where schoolgirls fatally stabbed confirmed

The industrial estate where The Hart Space is remained shut for a month after the attack
-Credit: (Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)


The owner of The Hart Space in Southport said she remains "heartbroken" as the future of the venue was confirmed. The Hart Space was where three children, Elsie Dot Stancombe, Alice Da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King were fatally stabbed, along with eight children and two adults being hospitalised with their injuries, on Monday, July 29.

Sefton Council has today confirmed the business will leave Hart Street and move to a new location. Questions still remain what the venue will be used as going forward.

But in a statement issued by the council, it has now been confirmed that The Hart Space will be relocated to The White House, a former restaurant and bar, on The Promenade in Southport.

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Jenie Scholes, who owns The Hart Space, said: "When the Hart Space opened five years ago, the ethos was to create a space, where everyone felt welcome, and supported and could make friends for life, navigating parenthood. While we will never forget, and remain heartbroken by the events in July, our mission remains the same and is stronger than ever.

“Sefton Council have been what I can only describe as outstanding in supporting the dream of a space dedicated to love and kindness. We hope that everyone will support the team at ‘The White House' when we open our doors."

Sefton Hospitality Operations Limited, which had recently operated in the venue on a short-term basis after a refurbishment of the building, has fully supported the move from the local authority and assisted Sefton Council in ensuring the inside of the former restaurant is suitably transformed for the Hart Space.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: "We are committed to doing whatever it takes to support our communities in the ongoing recovery of Southport. While this journey will take time, we are pleased to be able to have this opportunity to support Jenie and the Hart Space family in resuming their incredible work.

The White House, Southport
The White House, Southport -Credit:Andrew Brown Media

"In addition to the support of our Southport Business Recovery Fund, we are able to offer a beautiful venue in a lovely location for them to use. I would like to thank Sefton Hospitality Operations Ltd for their work at the White House and I know that they fully support and understand that we need to do whatever it takes to prioritise the use of our assets to help our communities. I look forward to seeing the hospitality business continuing to thrive at the Lake House in Waterloo."

Sefton Council and its partners continue to support anyone who needs help and support following the events of July 2024. If you need further information, guidance or support please visit www.sefton.gov.uk/southporttogether.