Apron is a community interest group operating in Shoreham by Sea. For some time Apron have been looking into the idea of a community garden and throughout lockdown this idea has grown into a more definite aim which we are ready to start developing. We approached Adur and Worthing Council with the proposal of creating a Community Garden in Buckingham Park. The project fits well with SustainableAW and Platforms for Places and has received positive and proactive responses the Council and potential partners. Lis Long, Apron Project Manager, has extensive experience in operations, project and event management. She has managed teams of volunteers and collaborated with a wide range of community groups. Lis is a keen gardener and has been a long term allotment holder. Inspired by the amazing work of Brighton & Hove Food Partnership and the Moulsecoomb Forest Garden Lis is confident that this project will add value to the Adur community.

What we'll deliver:

• Plant accessible raised beds for growing fruit and vegetables
• Work with local organisations to address the issue of food poverty in our area
• Deliver seasonal events and workshops throughout the year for the local community
• Provide educational sessions on sustainability, environment, and biodiversity
• Facilitate skills sharing sessions on food production, preparation and waste limitation
• Create a safe and accessible outdoor space for community led wellbeing activities and workshops
• Create accessible volunteering and learning opportunities for the community

Why it's a great idea:

There are currently no community gardens in Adur. The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown have highlighted local issues of food poverty and a disparity of wealth distribution in the area. This project will work towards tackling these issues. Through exisitng community networks Apron will work with groups to ensure the diversity of the community is represented. It will be an accessible space for people to come together safely. The garden will promote outdoor wellbeing activities, heathy lifestyle, help the local environment and increase volunteering, jobs and educational opportunities.

Steps to get it done:

• Secure funding
• Policies and procedures, accounts and insurances
• Generate volunteers
• Skills Audit
• Partners and programming
• Design and build of garden
• Open garden

By partnering with other community groups this project will have a wide reach and will maximise the amount of people who it will benefit.