Urban Wildlife Project 25
Revisiting a project some time after it ended is always going to be a little strange. At last factors conspired to allow the first batch of turf to be laid in the Thornton Lodge Community Centre garden as part of the Urban Wildlife Project.
Many of the young people attending were new to the project and as such were a little unsure as to how to contribute. In short order there was a relay of top soil and bark chippings being moved by wheel barrow and the first of the turf was laid.
The wild flower area had taken off with a fantastic show of the annuals along the fence and the vegetable, herb and flower beds were lush (maybe a little too lush) following the Summers rainfall.
Wet weather had been forecast but in the end the day was dry. By late afternoon it was possible to look over that portion of the garden and get an idea of what the “after” shot might look like.
Some young people took home rhubarb and parsnip to try with cooking instructions to pass on.
Despite the involvement of an over 50’s garden club, it is evident that the garden is going to need more input in order to maintain it. Thornton Lodge Action Group are currently seeking funding for a women only gardening group and to support the Urban Wildlife Project at this location.
Further work by Birch Forest Schools will take place on a part paid and part volunteer basis for the foreseeable future or until the area is turfed and completed according to the original plan. But then a garden is never finished…