Next step in the opening of iconic Strawberry Field to public

Strawberry Field, the iconic site immortalised in The Beatles hit Strawberry Fields Forever, is set for a major redevelopment which should see it open its famous gates to the public for the first time.

To coincide with the 50th anniversary of the release of the unforgettable song, which was on Friday, February 17, The Salvation Army, has launched its a new vision for the Strawberry Field site, weaving together educational, cultural, heritage and spiritual exploration in the plan.

The revival of the site of the former children’s home, treasured by John Lennon as he grew up a stone’s throw away in Woolton, Liverpool, will include a training and work placements hub for young people with learning disabilities; a new, authentic exhibition on the place, the song and John Lennon’s early life around Strawberry Field; and the development of  a haven for spiritual exploration.
 
Major Drew McCombe, divisional leader for The Salvation Army, North West, said: “Strawberry Field is special in the hearts of many people in Liverpool, the UK and across the world, and we at The Salvation Army are aiming to redevelop the site to do justice to the many people that have been supported by the children’s home or formed a connection with the iconic Beatles song.
 
“It’s no secret that Strawberry Field was special to John Lennon – it mattered to him – and it feels right to launch our fundraising campaign and new website on the 50th anniversary of the UK release of Strawberry Fields Forever.

” We’re going to inspire people to become involved in the project in any way they can, to create a pivotal place in the lives of young people and a must-see destination for Lennon and Beatles fans the world over.

“And this is just the beginning. There is much more to share about the site beyond its links to John Lennon.

“Over the next few months we will be letting fans across the globe know just how special this site was to John, as well as showing them how they can be a part of the site’s legacy and its future. There are some fantastic plans just around the corner, so watch this space.”

Peter Hooton, chair of The Beatles Legacy Group, said: “I can think of no better way Strawberry Field could be re-developed in such an innovative way, which gives hope and job opportunities to vulnerable young people, whilst making a valuable and worthwhile contribution to The Beatles Legacy in Liverpool.”