Grant-funded raised beds expand possibilities of Denmead community garden
A pair of city council-funded raised beds have improved the accessibility and potential of a Winchester community garden.
Greening Denmead, a volunteer-led not-for-profit group, applied to Winchester City Council for funding to support the creation of the beds in their garden space at Denmead Community Centre.
Supplies for the beds arrived in August and, with the help of 12 volunteers, the beds were built, painted and filled with topsoil. They are now fully operational, and have been treated with green manure before they are planted with salad crops for the next growing season.
Terri Bryant from Greening Denmead said: “This grant has enabled Greening Denmead to build two raised beds creating a visible and welcoming entrance for all residents and volunteers, whatever their ability, to come and enjoy the community garden.
“The garden is a welcoming space for everyone, including those who don't have access to their own green space, where people can learn new skills, grow food, and contribute to the wider village community. These beds have helped to make the garden more accessible including for older residents and people with mobility challenges.
“We welcome all local residents to join us at the community garden, even if only to socialise and benefit from fresh food. Any surplus produce will be donated to the wider community and the lunch club.”
Cllr Kathleen Becker, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities at Winchester City Council, said: “This is a fantastic initiative from Greening Denmead and I am delighted to see the raised beds in place in such a welcoming community space. They will be a key part of the group’s efforts to grow fresh local produce.
“It is also wonderful to see the camaraderie of group members who have been enjoying working together outside on this project; it’s offering a boost not only to their physical health of participants, but their mental wellbeing too. I’d encourage anyone interested to pop along and get involved.”
Could a grant help your group / organisation? Two grant schemes are currently open for applications.