To develop our basic green space into a haven of peace and tranquillity to be used by those who live and work in Morden; with general gardening or growing fruit and vegetables. The environmental benefits of green space are numerous; overcrowding of buildings can create uncomfortable heat island effects. Research has shown that plants can reduce air temperature in their immediate vicinity. Plants have many benefits, by creating a garden; we can bring them to a wide range of people who may not otherwise experience them. For those people with learning disabilities and those who feel socially isolated it would give them a place to feel safe and included.. A place for those who are affected by the demands and pressures of daily life that can contribute to mental ill health. We can support those who are struggling, by getting alongside them in everyday practical tasks. We would like to provide: plants, fruit trees, seating area, raised planting, a sensory area, vegetable trugs, flowers.

What we'll deliver:

• Create a community garden; an outdoor space for people to meet
• Somewhere to sit , rest and relax
• Somewhere to participate with others in a safe and friendly environment

Why it's a great idea:

Morden Baptist Church supports and encourages the local community; residents and people who work in Morden to come together. Our indoor facilities are currently used by Merton Council for a group of clients with learning disabilities; gaining experience in cafe work, a food bank, fraud prevention group, Love Morden, a playgroup, luncheon club for the elderly, to name a few. The community garden would be an opportunity to make use of the outside space. Whether people wish to participate in the gardening or just come and eat their lunch, meet people or sit and relax, all would be welcome. This garden would be open to everyone from babies to the elderly. The generations could connect with each other and school children would have the opportunity to learn more about plants, wildlife and the food that we grow. Even though alongside a busy road, it would give people the opportunity to come to a quiet space to get away from the pressures of everyday life without needing to travel.

Steps to get it done:

• Appointing a landscape architect to design the space for maximum efficiency
• The groundwork; digging, paving etc.
• Building of the raised beds, gate, fencing and trellis
• Installing the seating
• Planting; including trees, plants, flowers
• Growing a kitchen garden
• Enjoy sharing our space with our community

We are wanting to create an environment where members of our community who feel lonely or isolated could gather and share skills or learn new skills in a safe space. It is our hope that in the future we will be able to grow a kitchen garden. Children would benefit from seeing how food is grown. We would be open from 9-5 Monday to Friday.