The idea
Templar House is nestled in between Kilburn, Cricklewood, and West Hampstead. Over the years, its communal open spaces have been left to decay. Today, the estate feels unloved and has become a magnet for dumping and fly tipping. Help us turn this around!
This project will enable us to reinvent our green spaces and transform them into meaningful, biodiverse places for all to enjoy.
We will enhance the quality of existing plant beds and create new spaces for community gardening. The improved landscape will be the catalyst for formal and informal activities that will encourage neighbours to meet, socialise, learn new skills and develop a sense of pride and social belonging.
There are many leftover open spaces in Templar House, and just as many opportunities to change the way residents and visitors perceive the estate.
The estate is open to all, which means the project will benefit the wider community.
What we'll deliver
- Plant robust and low-maintenance shrubs that provide visual and seasonal interest throughout the year.
- Set up raised beds for edible and medicinal gardening.
- Organise gardening / training workshops for local residents
- Set up fortnightly volunteer meetings to care for the plant beds and encourage neighbours to garden together.
- Install new and additional waste bins around the gardens and raise awareness about waste disposal and recycling.
- Upgrade our existing tools locker and set it up as a "tools library" for residents.
- Set up youth gardening and crafts workshops.
- Create a sensory garden area for quiet retreat and contemplation.
Why it's a great idea
Good quality gardens and green spaces in urban areas play a pivotal role in the mental and physical health and wellbeing of residents. For communities at large, gardening and food growing provide much-needed opportunities to socialise, recreate, and learn new skills. Community gardens offer young people a means to engage with and learn about nature right on their doorstep.
Steps to get it done
- Autumn 2018 - prepare for the next growing season. Purchase new tools and bulbs, clear up areas, prepare the ground
- January 2019 - Start to advertise the initiative and continue winter preparation.
- Spring 2019 - Begin digging and planting the beds - volunteering sessions and workshops begin.
- Summer 2019 - Initiative is underway with monthly workshops and events.
