The Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot is opening its community garden which has been created so local people can have more of a connection to nature as well as the centre's facilities.
The popular community centre hopes that the garden will provide an outdoor space for existing groups and activities, as well as a growing space for fruit, vegetables and flowers.
As we have a mixture of homes in the area, we have supported the outdoor project by donating nearly £2,000 in materials through our social value rebate scheme with Jewson Partnership Solutions.
This contribution will help local residents in the area, where they can engage in a variety of activities and access an essential community fridge.
Lesley Browne, our Community Connector for the area, said: “We recognise the value that community hubs like the Courtney Centre play in our communities. They offer not only opportunities for recreation and social purpose but also support to those in need.
“Our social value offer helps us to develop our services further and ensures that community hubs can continue to thrive and meet the needs of the community.
"The garden project will provide opportunities for local schools to get involved with and help develop skills in young people who will benefit from future activities here.”
The garden also hosts two ‘bug hotels’ and ‘hot composting’ bins which will compost waste from the Courtenay Centre Café.
The creation of the community garden has also been made possible through funding also from Hubbub and the Naturesave Trust.
Food in the Community, Pollernize, Jewson Partnership Solutions and Bovey Landscapes have all donated plants, materials and time to the community project.
John Addy, Chair of Newton Abbot Centre Association, said: “We are very grateful for the support we have received with the community garden, and look forward to welcoming both existing centre users and new visitors into this outdoor space.
"The garden that we are creating is a space where people can enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation, as well as learn practical gardening skills. I would particularly like to thank the project funders and the volunteers who have helped bring the garden to life.”
The project received a £500 grant from the Naturesave Trust. The Trust is funded by the activities of Naturesave Insurance, the UK’s leading ethical insurance provider for individuals, businesses, charities and community groups.
The garden features several raised beds which are stocked with vegetables and flowers, as well as a covered seating area. Future plans include the provision of a wildlife area, and the addition of more fruit and vegetables.
The Courtenay Centre is hosting an open afternoon for the garden on September 26 from 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the garden and find out how you can get involved.
The centre is looking for volunteers to help look after the growing space. Regardless of your previous experience, if you would like to learn new skills and enjoy time outdoors, please contact Alex Gurpinar at alex@newtonabbotcic.org.uk.