Wellholme Park Community Garden - UPDATE
Licence
In February, we received our Growing Licence from Calderdale Council. This allows us to create and run a Community Garden.
This followed a public consultation process, the outcome of which showed support for our declared aims.
Progress
We have received grant funding that has allowed us to buy some equipment and to start development.
We have started to create four growing areas. These are:
- Pollinator bed
- Two vegetable growing beds
- Sensory garden
Ground works are underway. We hope to start planting this summer.
The above growing areas only cover 16% of the garden. We need to cut the overgrown grass that covers the remainder of the garden.
The site has not been maintained for some time. We have mown and tidied the borders alongside the paths that surround the garden.
Other
We are undertaking DBS checks which will allow us to work safely with our volunteers and vulnerable groups.
We are looking forward to our stall at Brighouse Charity Gala this month.
There will be news soon about reopening the full park, after completion of the flood alleviation works. Look out for further news.
Wellholme Park Community Garden - Project Overview
Our aims and outline plans are shown below. Thank you for taking the time to read these. We welcome support from any interested party, to help us to develop and deliver the Community Garden.
Purpose
- We aim to create a welcoming space that is accessible for all.
- We aim to provide a range of different growing environments.
- We aim to develop a nature friendly garden that respects and fits into our environment.
- There will be areas for growing food crops.
- There will be pollinator beds.
- There will be a sensory garden.
- There will be space to relax.
Environment
A key aim of our plans, is to encourage the community to use and understand and protect the natural world that is Wellholme Park.
- Pest control can be achieved by encouraging natural predators. Therefore, beds will be created to encourage bees and other insects. A Bug hotel will be built. Areas for Hedgehog nesting will be created.
- A communal compost bin will be provided. However, composting within each growing are will be encouraged through the use of "Keyhole" beds.
- Peat and peat based products will not be allowed.
- Litter bins will not be provided. Members will be expected to take litter home.
Chemicals will only be used as a last resort, and in accordance with relevant guidance.
Structure
- The bowling green is surrounded by a path and grass borders. These will be retained.
- The area, has a hut, which will be used as a shelter.
- A Storage solution will be required for equipment.
- A paved path leads from an entrance gate, to the edge of the green. A ramp which is suitable for wheelchair access, will be installed here.
- Raised beds will be provided to enable access for all people.
- Ground level beds will allow the growth of bulk crops.
- A container to be used for materials storage.
- A water storage system will be developed.
Management
- A Health and Safety system will operate.
- A rota of maintenance work will be required. Grass cutting, hedge trimming, compost bins, benches, etc.
- Membership details will be displayed on the entrance gate, social media and website.