Hedgerow project@ The Eco Therapy Garden

The environment

Our project helped the environment in several important ways. By establishing a native hedgerow in the Eco Therapy Garden, we created vital habitat for wildlife such as birds, insects, and small mammals, which promotes biodiversity and strengthens local ecosystems. The hedgerow acts as a wildlife corridor, allowing species to move safely between areas and connecting fragmented habitats, including linking the new Headbolt Lane train station landscaping with other local wildlife initiatives. Additionally, the native plants we used support pollinators, improve air quality, stabilize soil, sequester carbon, and help manage water resources. This not only enhances ecological resilience and mitigates the effects of climate change but also raises environmental awareness and encourages stewardship within the community.

The local economy

Our project supported the local economy in several ways. By planting a native hedgerow, we sourced plants and materials locally, which benefited nearby nurseries and suppliers. The creation and maintenance of the Eco Therapy Garden also provided opportunities for local contractors, landscapers, and volunteers to develop skills and gain experience in environmental work. As the hedgerow matures, it will attract more visitors to the area, encouraging people to use local shops, cafes, and services, particularly around the new Headbolt Lane train station. In the long term, the project promotes a healthier, greener environment, which can enhance property values and make the area more attractive for sustainable development and eco-tourism initiatives.

Volunteering, jobs & education

Our project increased volunteering, jobs, and education by engaging local people in the planning, planting, and maintenance of the native hedgerow. It provided volunteering opportunities for community members to learn practical gardening and conservation skills while contributing to a meaningful environmental initiative. The project also supported jobs for local suppliers, landscapers, and contractors involved in sourcing plants and creating the Eco Therapy Garden. In addition, the hedgerow serves as an educational resource, raising awareness about biodiversity, pollinators, and climate action, and inspiring environmental stewardship within schools and community groups.

Arts, culture & heritage

Our project supported arts, culture, and heritage by preserving and promoting the use of native plant species that are part of the local natural heritage. The hedgerow reflects traditional countryside features that have been an important part of the cultural landscape for centuries, helping to reconnect the community with its rural heritage. It also provides an inspiring natural space for creative activities such as outdoor art, photography, storytelling, and cultural events within the Eco Therapy Garden, encouraging people to engage with nature through art and celebrate the area’s environmental and cultural identity.

Activity, health and leisure

Our project promoted activity, health, and leisure by creating a green space where people can spend time outdoors, connect with nature, and enjoy the benefits of fresh air. Planting and maintaining the native hedgerow encouraged physical activity for volunteers and community members, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. The Eco Therapy Garden now provides a peaceful setting for walking, relaxation, and eco-therapy sessions, helping to reduce stress and promote healthier lifestyles. It also offers opportunities for leisure activities like wildlife watching, gardening, and outdoor learning.