Valley Street Community Garden
A community garden project in Burnley is calling on more local people to get involved as it continues to grow.
The Valley Street Community Garden, based at Valley Street Community Centre, brings residents together every Wednesday with Incredible Edible Burnley to grow fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs for the benefit of the local community.
The project has been developed through a partnership between Calico Homes and Incredible Edible Burnley, and what began as a small developing space is now becoming a thriving community asset.
Residents taking part can learn new gardening skills, spend time outdoors, connect with nature, meet new people and improve their wellbeing – while also having the opportunity to take home fresh produce they have helped to grow.
The group is now looking for more volunteers to help ensure the garden continues to thrive.
No previous gardening experience is needed, with all tools and equipment provided. Organisers are particularly keen to hear from people who may want to try something new, meet others in their local area or simply enjoy spending more time outdoors.
The garden has already made a positive difference to people involved in the project.
One Calico customer, who had been unable to work because of stress and anxiety, volunteered his time and carpentry skills to help build a decked walkway inside the garden's polytunnel, making the area more accessible for everyone.
Reflecting on his experience, he said: “It made a huge difference to how I felt. The space is so tranquil. It was nice to be in the great outdoors, with people and staff around to help with the loneliness.”
The project has also received support from residents on the Hargher Estate, who donated ground-covering plants to help improve the appearance of the garden.
The contribution is another sign of the growing sense of pride and ownership within the local community.
Alongside creating opportunities for people to learn and socialise, the garden is producing potatoes, fruit, vegetables and herbs which volunteers will soon be able to take home.
Organisers say it also provides a safe and welcoming environment for people who may be experiencing isolation, struggling with their wellbeing or simply looking for a place to spend time outdoors.