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Issue Date: 7th June 2006
COMMUNITY GARDEN OFFICIALLY OPENED IN NEWCASTLE WEST END
A community garden, which has been created by a group of local residents in North Benwell, Newcastle, was officially opened on Friday 2nd June.
The opening of the Ladykirk Road Community Garden, which was previously just another green space in the area, was marked with the planting of a tree by local Councillor Doreen James.
Work began on the site last September, led by local residents Vera Carter and Judith Okoro, with a group of volunteers. Since then, more than 400 bulbs for plants including daffodils and tulips have been planted and extensive weeding and pruning has been carried out. The garden also offers garden furniture including benches and picnic tables, with are suitable for everyone including wheelchair users.
Councillor Doreen James commented: "The local residents responsible for transforming this site into a community garden have done a magnificent job.
"This garden is a haven for the whole community to enjoy and everyone working on this project is to be congratulated for their efforts."
Various organisations played a role in setting up the community garden, including the North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative, the Council's Parks and Countryside team, Neighbourhood Services and the Young Firefighters. Now, Vera and Judith are looking for more volunteers.
Vera Carter, whose flat looks out on to the garden, said: "This is a community garden and we need more volunteers of any age and gardening experience to help us to maintain this space.
"This whole area has come a long way in the last few years, and it's still changing for the better. This community garden is another big step forward for North Benwell." Also attending the event was Lisa Brinicombe of Business in the Community who awarded the oak tree sapling used in the official opening to North Benwell in recognition of the Neighbourhood Management Initiative's work. Lisa commented.
"It really is fantastic to see this project come to fruition, and we're delighted that our sapling is being planted here to mark the garden's opening. Hopefully it will provide a long-lasting reminder that great things can grow from small beginnings".
The opening event, which also saw a Teddy Bears Picnic for local teddy bears and their owners, was the culmination of the area's Clean Sweep week. Events took place which focused on improving the local environment, including a hanging basket event where residents could get their hands dirty and buy low-cost baskets.
"Local residents have played an enormous role in improving the environment in North Benwell this week.
"The opening of the garden bears testament to just what the community can and is achieving to make North Benwell an even better place to live," said Martin Conway, Neighbourhood Assistant with the North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative.
North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative covers over 2,000 properties and is funded by Bridging NewcastleGateshead (BNG). It is delivered by Home Group Ltd, Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police as part of Bridging NewcastleGateshead.