The journey so far
What started as a lock down project has grown into something amazing!
Step 1 - Funding
Newham Council’s Community Assemblies project called on local residents to submit ideas on what they wanted to see in their local borough.
Sustainability, more green spaces and cleaner air quality were high on people’s priorities here in Manor Park. An application for funding for the existing community garden was submitted and received a great response in terms of votes from local residents.
After a number of presentations, zoom calls, proposed budgeting and project planning we were grateful to receive £20,000 from the council for investment in the garden in September 2021.
The countdown was on. We had 6 months to put the funding to good use!
Step 2 - Planning and Prepping
The garden is designed by and for our community. We wanted share initial plans and, ask fellow residents how they would envisage using the space and what they would like to see. We held our first open day, the weather was on our side and we had a great turn out of people wanting to contribute their ideas. Top of the list was ensuring that the garden was a space that belonged to everyone.
We also set about making some space in the current community garden to reassess how the area could be maximised, re-using existing materials and temporarily rehousing the plants whilst work was carried out. Check out the progress photos.
Our first open day! It was a great turn out
Local MP, Stephen Timms popped by
Local residents share their ideas
So pleased the sun stayed out!
Some new faces who have recently moved to the area
Our first certification from the RHS :-)
Now let's set to work!
It's grubby work but someone's gotta do it!
Rehoming the existing plants was a top priority.
A little family of snails to keep safe
The existing planters were rotting so the team are dismantling them.
The soil is great quality, we're saving all of it!
Digging in!
Can't wait to have the garden full of life again!
A quick coffee break
Getting stuck in
New plans are afoot!
We're getting there!
Plant salvage successful!
Great progress guys
A few necessary repairs
What a great blank canvas to work with!
And now the fun begins...
The green of the plants really stand out against the dark fence!
The never ending job. Plenty of snacks to keep us going!
Out 2nd open day...slightly colder this time!
A lick of paint gives the garden a whole new look!
Open every Saturday! Keep an eye on our social channels for regular activities
Fancy using the garden for your business, project, start-up idea?
We want to hear from you
Step 4 - Planting
Whether you’re green fingered, or not sure of your daffodils from your dandelions, you can help at the garden. We hope to grow from seeds, as well as bring in established plants and fruiting trees. Edible plants and herbs that can be used in cooking will ensure the garden reflects the natural human diversity of our neighbourhood.
No experience required, many of our existing volunteers can point you in the right direction. Autumn will see more use of our greenhouse for growing exotic plants ready for next spring.