The group has consistently met bi-weekly to plan the design of the garden, source materials, and explore methods for constructing items using reclaimed wood and pallets.
Before commencing the building phase, we held a listening campaign meeting with the neighbours across the road who walk past the garden daily. This was to ensure that the project aligns with the needs of the broader community, rather than just our group. Additionally, we engaged with the mother of Richard Joseph, in whose honor the memorial garden is being created, to gain a deeper understanding of his role in the community and to explore meaningful ways to commemorate his legacy. which since has seen the work and been moved to tears of joy, for the work which has been completed.
We conducted a group session using CAD software to design the garden, further enhancing the skills of the team. Additionally, we received support for logo design, which guided Eco Council members through the creative process. This will enable us to create an Instagram account showcasing the work completed, set to launch in the new year.
The project has progressed smoothly so far. We have already hosted two successful volunteer days, with participation varying—25 volunteers on the first day and 10–15 on the second.
First Volunteering Day – 17th September
On this day, we cleared the memorial garden, weeded, painted, and constructed a bench unit for the adult learning space. We also created benches for the outdoor classroom in the secret garden.
Second Volunteering Day – 21st November
During this session, we focused on sanding down the memorial statues and the surrounding railings, followed by painting. We also constructed raised beds and prepared the garden space for planting by lifting up the paving tiles.
Soil arrived – 28th November
We ordered 2 tons of nutrient-rich soil to refresh the garden beds, ensuring they are ready for planting in the new year. Additionally, we removed the weed barriers, as they were inhibiting the efficacy of the decomposers. and planted some lavender, basil and rosemary.
Beyond the garden work, our Eco Council has actively contributed to other green initiatives. We have volunteered at Thomas Academy, assisting with groundkeeping tasks alongside Growing Space, and facilitated volunteers for the "Our Planet Needs You" initiative which has worked with several classes from primary schools to work on litter picking projects
Next Steps
there is still more to be done in the new year with full planting of the flowers (perennials and annuals), Richard roses, putting up some wire or trestle with some climbing jasmine and passion flowers. creating a water tap to be able to upkeep, creation of bioverta and composting space.
Action plan:
Timeline: When will you be able to start your project? How often will your team meet? Are there any key dates to share for the project?
Budget: You don't need to share exact prices, but please share how you're planning to spend the seed funding & what costs you're anticipating to get your project up and running:
Impact: How will your community benefit from this project? Do you have any measurable goals for your project, such as the number of people that will participate? Are you hoping to spread knowledge or increase interest in a specific subject?
Location: If your project requires physical space, have you decided the location? Do you have all necessary permission and permits to carry out your project at the chosen location?
Additional questions
Please answer the questions below as much as you can.
Growing Space will review the information you provide before your kickstart call.
This will help save time and get you started straight on your project once you receive your seed funding!
Age group of those involved in the project:
Number of children/adults the project will benefit:
Future activities: describe the activities you aim to run in the future with your Growing Space (for example: gardening, forest school, herb tasting with parents/neighbours/extended families of children/elderly people, etc.):
Material/trees: what trees/structure(s) or features do you already have in site? (if none, just answer 'none'):
Does your site have water access?
Do you want to install a water butt (not obligatory)
Please confirm in one sentence that you have permission from a manager or landlord (of the building or head of a school (as necessary) saying that they are happy to make the improvement of their outdoor space and let you lead the project
What is the exact measurement/size of the proposed space for your My Mini Growing Space?
Please upload a few pictures of the site and from different angles (ideally 1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon, when the sun is out)"
What time of the day does the space get the most sun and for how long?
If you have the plans, a sketch, or a rough drawing of the space you intend to use, please upload it as part of your Action Plan
That’s all for now!
We are excited to get you started!
Davine/Growing Space @Masbro Centre
Project Timeline
First community engagement session for design input at Tulip planting event
Budget Plan
The seed funding will be allocated towards the following key areas:
Community Impact
This project will benefit the local community in multiple ways, aiming to engage individuals from diverse age groups (11-90) and backgrounds. Key measurable goals include:
Location & Permissions
Future Activities
Once established, the growing space will be used to host a range of activities, including:
Existing Site Features & Additions
Conclusion
This project aims to reconnect the community with nature, promote sustainable living, and offer a space for intergenerational learning and collaboration. By fostering deeper connections between participants and the local environment, we hope to create a lasting positive impact on the community's health, well-being, and engagement with climate justice issues.
This detailed plan will ensure a smooth project kickoff upon receiving the seed funding, with clear goals, timelines, and community involvement throughout the process.
Davine/Growing Space @Masbro Centre
This project aims to reconnect the community with nature, promote sustainable living, and offer a space for intergenerational learning and collaboration. By fostering deeper connections between participants and the local environment, we hope to create a lasting positive impact on the community's health, well-being, and engagement with climate justice issues.
Project Timeline
First community engagement session for design input at Tulip planting event
Budget Plan
The seed funding will be allocated towards the following key areas:
Community Impact
This project will benefit the local community in multiple ways, aiming to engage individuals from diverse age groups (11-90) and backgrounds. Key measurable goals include:
Location & Permissions
Future Activities
Once established, the growing space will be used to host a range of activities, including:
Existing Site Features & Additions
This detailed plan will ensure a smooth project kickoff upon receiving the seed funding, with clear goals, timelines, and community involvement throughout the process.
