In 2024, when you stroll down Nevill Street in Southport, you might not be conscious of the history that is buried beneath your feet.

The mystery of ‘The Lost Street’ has captivated Southport residents, tourists, and keen historians in recent years.

An interactive 3D artwork will bring this hidden piece of Southport’s history to life over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

“The Lost Street” will recreate the busy Victorian streetscape and provide glimpse of Nevill Street before 1900.

Visitors will be delighted by the interactive event, which invites them to pose for photos “looking down” over the street below.

From Saturday, May 25 to Monday, May 27, 10 am to 5 pm, the 6m x 3m anamorphic artwork will be on display next to the Queen Victoria statue on Nevill Street.

Funding for the event comes from Southport BID, Sefton Council, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Southport Townscape Heritage Project.

Throughout, Southport Townscape Heritage Project employees and volunteers will be available to provide historical background on Nevill Street and its structures.

Acclaimed artists 3D Joe and Max were commissioned to create the eye-catching artwork. Their rich portfolio includes work for brands such as Coca Cola, Disney Pixar, and Google.

Joe Hill, of 3D Joe and Max, said:

“We have created street art all over the world, and these events always generate a lot of excitement. 

Projects like ‘The Lost Street’, which reveal the hidden histories of our places, are extra special and fascinating to work on.”

Originally, Nevill Street cut through the sandhills and under a bridge to reach the seashore. Today, it rises up to the Promenade.

A ramp to the Victoria Baths and another to the recently constructed Pier led up either side of the bridge.

The space under these ramps was home to shops and bars which catered for the stream of visitors making their way to the seafront.

READ MORE: MERSEYRAIL’S SOUTHPORT LINE REACHES HISTORIC LANDMARK FOR RAILWAY INDUSTRY