This study shows how problem sites may be revived, turned into communal areas and environmental havens. A disused area is now a garden of learning and skills, a pleasant place, and provides additional benefits to all.

It encourages recycling and healthy eating and it’s totally organic. It’s helped bridge gaps between young and old. Where there is a shortage of houses with gardens people should look for grot spots which could with support become beauty spots.

Five years ago this garden on a terraced street in Wigan was little used except as a dumping ground for rubbish. Wigan Council licensed the land to One Voice Residents’ Association and the project was kick-started with £10,000 from North West Water and practical leadership from the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, which also helped encourage wildlife into the site through native planting.

There have been challenges, not least that of addressing complaints from the community. Some residents, for example, thought greenhouses might have caused problems, but with consultation and reassurance they dropped their objections.

Wigan Council licensed the land to One Voice Residents’ Association and gave the project £10,000 from North West Water. The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers gave practical leadership and native planting helped encourage wildlife into the site. Consultation and reassurance allayed complaints from the community.

At £8,000, recommended fencing threatened the project, but renewal, Brighter Borough and Shell funds were consolidated. With advice from the police, the fence has kept the garden crime-free. A hanging basket scheme for local residents generates funds. Garden furniture made by the probation service is charged at cost. Local firms have supplied gardening tools.

This is a tranquil place to learn new skills and relax. It encourages recycling, healthy eating and is organic. Wide paths, raised vegetable beds and access gates allow access, but ethnic minorities remain under-represented. The garden’s relaunch last August, following a £10,000 revamp funded by private sector housing companies, focused firmly on community cohesion.

Consultation and partnerships have helped steer the project, secure planning permission, garner funding and support and balance the books. Maintenance and heavy labour from local young people, youth offenders and the probation service has cut labour costs. Weeding has been minimised by using low maintenance plants and stoned seating areas.

The environment and the community

Partners:

Funding:

Budget: Around £35,000

RENEW Northwest
info@RENEW.co.uk

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case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Capacity building