THE walled garden in Central Park, Wallasey, is to re-open seven days a week for community groups and visitors.

Weekend access to the garden, described as one of Wirral's hidden gems, had been restricted in recent months because of staffing issues.

It is currently open from Monday to Friday. After discussions between staff the council’s parks and countryside team and representatives of the various groups using facilities within the garden, an agreement was reached which means the garden will now be open every day.

The garden features a café, which is run by volunteers who use Wirral's day services.

It gives volunteers, who all have disabilities, a chance to put their independent living skills into practice.

As well as serving in the cafe, they organise and take part in other activities around the garden.

Cllr Anne McArdle, Wirral's cabinet member for social care and inclusion, said: "It is great news that this valuable and well-loved facility will soon be back fully up and running.

"The volunteers get so much benefit out of the surroundings, the service they provide and contact they have with the local community."

Cllr Chris Meaden, cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, added: "It is a shame that the Walled Garden hasn’t been fully accessible at times over recent months, but we've come to an arrangement that will ensure it can be opened up on a daily basis for the benefit both of park visitors and the community groups that get so much enjoyment from using it."