The idea
The outside area of the Arkell Centre provides a small, fenced secure space where children can play safely. Currently it has a paved area with some seating, a central 'soft' tarmac surfaced area, a screening hedge and earth borders containing a few shrubs.
We plan to install large, durable aluminium rectangular planters which will be filled with compost and planted with perennial and annual fruit and vegetables. We will also procure a set of hand forks, trowels, kneelers, seeds and other small items and a small lockable box with a seat to store them in.
The fruit and vegetable plants will be selected to suit the space: for example strawberries and blackcurrants in areas that will be partly shaded, miniature apple and plum trees suitable for containers.
Nailsworth CAN's Grow It group will also hold education, planting and maintenance events to support the scheme.
What we'll deliver
- Install 3 large planters, attach trellis, fill with compost and plant with fruit bushes, strawberries and vegetables
- Install 2 medium planters, fill with compost and plant with miniature fruit trees
- Procure a small lockable storage box seat and set of basic gardening tools: watering can, hand forks, trowels, kneelers
- Plant fruit trees, blackberries and raspberries in the bank bed
- Purchase garden journals for children to use
Why it's a great idea
The Arkell Centre hosts a number of community groups supporting local children, families and pensioners.
The garden will provide an additional and accessible community amenity for local families and residents who may not have their own garden.
The Arkell Centre is located close to Nailsworth Primary School and many children use the drop in centre. The garden will provide an opportunity for children to learn where food comes from and get involved in growing it in a safe space.
Rooms at the Arkell Centre are hired for private events. The garden will enhance the amenity value of the outdoor space and increase its use, making the venue attractive to more people and increasing income to support the running of the Centre.
Placement of aluminium planters at the edge of the paved/soft tarmaced areas will help to keep the outdoor space tidy. Currently, earth from a sloping border spills down and encroaches on the central space.
Steps to get it done
- Prepare a detailed design for the layout of the garden and contents
- Consult with and secure approval from the Board of Trustees for the design
- Purchase and install the 'hardware': planters, trellis, compost
- Procure the plants for the garden
- Organise a planting day, inviting the community to join in
- Complete the planting and open the garden
- Organise dates for maintenance of the garden
