A park in Southampton city centre has been named after a Daily Echo poll that attracted nearly 3,000 votes.

Work is underway to turn former car park in Castle Way and Albion Place into a bus hub and a park, the city’s first green space in the Old Town for 60 years.

Three names were put forward which reflect the ‘vibrant history and significance’ of the city – Albion Gardens, Arundel Gardens, and Petronilla Gardens.

It can now be confirmed that residents have voted for Arundel Gardens to be the new name of the site, which swept 77 per cent of the vote.

Cllr Lorna Fielker, leader of Southampton City Council told the Echo: “We are proud of our heritage in Southampton and the winning name reflects that residents are too. 

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Daily Echo:

“I’m excited to see how both the bus hub and the park projects progress.

"The bus hub will support a better bus provision for both residents and visitors, as well as a choice of transport options and will boost the city’s economy by encouraging more tourists to visit.

“We hope to open Albion Place Bus Hub and Arundel Gardens by the end of the year, so that the community can enjoy the new facilities.”

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.

Cllr Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, added: “I’m delighted with the winning name of the park as it closely links with our rich heritage and the iconic Arundel Tower, which dates all the way back to the 13th Century.

“I would like to thank everyone who took part in the readers’ poll, more than 2,600 people participated which shows there is strong community support for the scheme.”