New Southampton park needs a name - and you can vote for it

Work is currently underway to transform the car parks at Castle Way and Albion Place into a bus hub and the city's first new park in the Old Town for 60 years.

But a fresh name – with ties to Southampton’s heritage – is needed.

Three names which reflect the ‘vibrant history and significance’ of the city have been suggested and it is down to residents to choose the winner.

Albion Gardens, Arundel Gardens, and Petronilla Gardens or Park are the proposed names.

The first pays homage to the previous Albion Gardens where Albion Place is now.

Albion Gardens (Image: Southampton City Council)

Albion Place was developed in late 1794 by an architect named John Plaw after it was sold by the Reverend John Hoadly, rector of St Mary's.

Since that time the area has undergone significant changes.

Meanwhile, Arundel Gardens is a tribute to the Arundel Tower, first known as Corner Tower.

It dates back to the 13th century and is the north-west corner tower of the medieval town walls.

Originally a defence tower, it is believed to have been named after Sir John Arundel, governor of Southampton Castle in the 14th Century.

Arundel Tower on the north-west corner of Southampton’s town walls. (Image: Historic Southampton)

Petronilla Gardens, or Park, pays tribute to Petronilla Isembarb, a remarkable figure in medieval studies.

The great-granddaughter of Norman merchant Robert of St Lawrence, she defied societal norms in the Middle Ages by running her late husband's business as a legally independent woman.

According to Southampton City Council, the possible names for the park have been carefully selected to allow residents and visitors to engage with the historical significance of the area.

The names are unique and highlight the significance of Southampton's historical landmarks.

The new name will be announced after the votes are cast.