A RALLYING call has been issued to green-fingered Malvern residents to get involved with a community garden project.
Housing firm Fortis Living, which provides more than 15,000 homes across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, is inviting volunteers to help turn a piece of unused land at Elgar Park into a garden for everyone to enjoy.
The finished Pickersleigh Community Garden will provide a much-needed space for activities such as gardening groups, school events and educational workshops.
Coun Caroline Bovey, Pickersleigh ward representative on the district and town council, said: “I think this is a great opportunity for residents to get involved.
“Fledgling gardeners can learn from the more experienced and it gives everyone a chance to get outdoors.
“It has my full support and I hope as many residents as possible, of all ages, will join in.”
The project, which should be completed by spring next year, will include installing a system to harvest rainwater and building raised beds so it is accessible to all.
By introducing a composting system, a shed and a greenhouse, it is hoped the Pickersleigh Community Garden will become self-sufficient and grow produce throughout the year.
The Royal Horticultural Society has also recommended Fortis Living to keep bees as well as creating a pond.
A start has already been made on the project, thanks to the Tesco Bags of Help fund and Malvern Hills District Council’s Section 106 money, cash developers contribute to provide local amenities when building new homes.
Some equipment has been purchased and remaining funds will be allocated to various groups within the community to buy items they would like to see in the garden.
Ben Roberts, community officer at Fortis Living, said: “Our aim is to turn a derelict patch of grass into a lovely, well cared-for space that offers a host of opportunities for local residents.
“Community gardens provide a wonderful space for people to come together and, for example, find fellowship in growing or learning about food as well as cooking in a healthy environment.”
For more information and details of how to get involved in the project email [email protected] or call Ben on 01684 579328.
Alternatively, search for ‘Pickersleigh Community Garden’ on Facebook or Twitter.
