The idea
We have a fantastic opportunity to re-nstate an abandoned walled garden that was formerly part of the historic Cresswell Hall estate (which includes Cresswell Pele Tower) and to make this into a community green space where visitors can rest, reflect and participate in gardening and wildlife.
Having opened the restored Pele Tower in 2021, our focus has now shifted to the adjacent walled garden where volunteers have removed the debris of decades of neglect to reveal a fantastic space that will become a "secret" garden for locals and visitors to enjoy, complementing the built environment and history of the area.
Recreating its former orchard, complete with beehives are priorities from community consultation.
What we'll deliver
- Plant an orchard of 30 trees including medieval species ie: medlar
- Construct and install beehives safely amongst orchard
- Provide volunteers with skills to maintain beehives
Why it's a great idea
Restore neglected garden into public greenspace with areas for gatherings and educational space. Increase mindfulness through access to wildlife and plants. Provide space for participation in gardening for those who lack this locally. Provide opportunities for local volunteers to gain new skills. Enhance access to historic and cultural assets. Increase biodiversity and understanding of natural processes esp. pollination.
Steps to get it done
- Buying and planting 30 fruit trees
- Building & installing 2 hives
- Training 6 participants in bee-keeping
Cresswell Pele is a nationally important but totally undervalued historic asset that has been rescued from neglect and is now a local asset. One of the few remaining standing Towers along the anglo-scottish border, they were hugely significant during the border troubles in the middle ages. It has now been fully restored (removed from Historic England Buildings at Risk Register - a huge accolade!) and is now open to the public free of charge. The entire site and projects are managed by volunteers.
