GSPC have agreed in principle to take a lease on the land. We are currently waiting for the lease to be drawn up and formally agreed. No funds will be transferred to the project until this has been completed. Converting an underused public space from a plain grassed area to a welcoming colourful array of wildflowers, fruit trees and wildlife habitats. The garden will have a winding fully accessible path to provide access to all areas of the garden. There will be opportunities for people of all ages to learn about nature and the environment and to collect seeds for planting elsewhere. The garden would be within walking distance of the primary school, pre-school, toddler group and the living accommodation for older people at Summerfield House. This should encourage people of all ages to enjoy the garden and learn from it. We hope the opportunity to see the seasonal changes in the garden will mean older residents get out more often especially with the chance to sit on a bench.

What we'll deliver:

• To engage local residents in the planning and development of the garden and encourage their on-going involvement.
• To provide up to 150 sq metres accessible path
• Wildflower and sensory planting
• Bird boxes, feeders and wild life habitats
• Interepretive signage
• Benches

Why it's a great idea:

The project will help the environment by increasing wildflowers and pollinaters; improve well-being by encouraging residents, especially less mobile to visit and enjoy; increase opportunities for volunteering both through the implementation and on-going maintenance; and provide opportunities to learn about wildflowers and nature; and to collect seeds, fruits and herbs.

Steps to get it done:

• Refining the design to take into account residents views
• Approval from Cheshire West & Chester to proceed
• Appoint a volunteer team and terms of reference
• Clear and prepare the ground
• Layout Planting Areas and Paths
• Construct paths and instal benches
• Buying plants, trees and seeds
• Construct and instal bug hotels, bird boxes etc
• Design and instal information signs
• Arrange official opening of the garden
• Organise an on-going maintenance schedule with volunteers

We held a zoom meeting, and conducted a survey of residents. Support has been good and over 30 pledges have already been received.. In addition there is already an established volunteer group currently working to improve the village environment who are eager to be involved. The area links the ancient and modern parts of the parish via a footpath from Church Lane which includes St John the Baptist church, built in 1815, and the Bird in Hand pub, and newer development built in the early 1970s where there is also the school, village hall and post office.