Doxford Park covers just over 9 hectares. The Walled Garden inside the Park covers about 1 hectare. Our project will improve the state of the paths and edging to make it easier to move around. A new garden nursery will be established by introducing raised beds. Signage will be installed to raise awareness that the 'secret garden' actually exists. Hopefully this will encourage new visitors ino the Park, and finally the sensory pots and plants will be replenished to provide an enhanced visitor's experience.

What we'll deliver:

• Upgrade the existing paths and edging inside the walled garden (approx. 120m)
• Install 14 raised beds to support the development of a nursery
• Purchase a 'Welcome to the Secret Garden' sign
• Renew sensory pots and plants to enhance the visitors experience

Why it's a great idea:

The existing pathway is old and tired and people with mobility issues, both young and old, struggle getting their balance. Having a better pathway will contribute towards making the Park a more positive place to visit. More people in the Park means less anti-social behaviour. The Nursery will enable future plants to be grown and allow a continuous colourful display of plants throughout the year. The manual work will be carried out primarily by local volunteers which will reduce social isolation and increase health and mental wellbeing by getting people outdoors to work together by taking part in the various activities associated with gardening. There is now a vast amount of historical evidence supporting the fact that green projects have a positive effect on the mental and physical well-being of participants. More volunteers in the Park will enable it to be sustained after the project has been delivered.

Steps to get it done:

• March 2020: Stock order placed for materials, wood and plants
• April 2020: improve pathways and install desire lines to open up accessibility
• April / May 2020: Set up nursery / raised bed
• May 2020: install signage and replenish sensory pots and plants
• April - May 2020: Marketing campaign
• June 2020: Celebration and opening event
• July 2020: Evaluate the success

In Summer 2018 a survey was carried out at a family fun day delivered in the Park. Involving 650 local residents (living within one mile). The results from the community indicated that many people did not know that the Park existed and regularly drive past it, not really taking an interest and it was their first visit. That said, everyone commented on how surprised they were once inside but recognised it needed some TLC.