3D artwork set to bring Victorian-era Nevill Street to life.

When you walk along Nevill Street in 2024, you might not be aware of the history that lies buried beneath your feet.

In recent years, the mystery of the 'The Lost Street' is a topic that has captured the imagination of Southport locals, visitors, and keen historians alike.

Over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, this hidden piece of Southport's history will be brought to life in the form of an interactive 3D artwork.

‘The Lost Street’ will offer a glimpse of pre-1900 Nevill Street; reimagining the Victorian streetscape bustling with activity.

The interactive event is set to delight visitors, who are invited to pose for pictures ‘looking down’ over the street below.

The 6m x 3m anamorphic artwork will be in place on Nevill Street (alongside the statue of Queen Victoria) from Saturday May 25 to Monday May 27, 10am-5pm.

The event is part of the Southport Townscape Heritage Project and is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Southport BID and Sefton Council.

Staff and volunteers from Southport Townscape Heritage Project will be on-site throughout, offering insights into the history of Nevill Street and its buildings.

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.”

Today, the Nevill Street rises up to the Promenade, but originally the road was cut through the sandhills and under a bridge to reach the seashore.

Two ramps led up either side of the bridge; one to the newly built Pier and the other to the Victoria Baths.

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

Examples of the artists 3D work at Gloucester's Cathedral Centre (c) 3D Joe and Max