Agenda item

Alan Taylor from Wombwell Ward Alliance was welcomed to the meeting to give a presentation entitled ‘Growing a Garden, Growing a Community’.

The project had developed from Alliance and Berneslai Homes plans to, amongst other things, develop landlocked areas, promote healthy living, reduce grass cutting and increase engagement.

The meeting heard how the feasibility of the project had been explored with partners and consultation undertaken with the public.  Members noted that the project was not merely to create a garden, but was also to act as a meeting point, help people learn new skills, and to improve health.

Members heard how the site was chosen for a number of reasons including having appropriate access, the ability to make the site secure, and being able to install a water supply.

Further consultation was undertaken through questionnaires, and holding an event on site. It was noted that the weather had hampered some of this, however this was bolstered by further door to door engagement and a number of interested residents signed up.

In early 2016 an estimate of £15,350 was arrived at for the site with Berneslai Homes providing £8,000 of the costs and the Ward Alliance providing the remainder.

A further event was held on site at Easter, with over a 100 people in attendance, and since this date the site has gone from strength to strength. Not only had the site developed, but the community had come together, with residents talking and interacting with each other. A further bed has been installed in Wombwell Cemetery to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

Alan made the meeting aware of plans in the autumn, and plans to restart afresh in the Spring, with gardeners becoming part of the management of the site. 

Lessons learned as part of the project were discussed, which included establishing appropriate governance structures, and ensuring there was appropriate planning.

Alan gave thanks to a number of individuals for their support, including Amanda Bradshaw and the Area Team; Yola Walker and Berneslai Homes; the Tidy Team; Brian Whitaker; and the Ward Alliance.

Praise was given to the project and the impact seen in the area. Questions were asked relating to the insurance of the site and the use of produce.

Insuring the site had not been an issue, and in addition to public liability it had also been insured in order to hold events.

With regards to the use of produce, and it was noted that residents kept their own produce, but there was one communal bed on site.  It was noted that in the future this could be used for healthy eating/cook and eat sessions.

RESOLVED that thanks be given to Alan for the presentation and the project be praised.