Southampton City Council has agreed plans for a new green space project for residents at Shinewell Gardens.
The project, which is being led by Abri and Green Earth Plan, will see a disused area of Council owned land between Shinwell Gardens and Mason Moor Primary School in Millbrook brought back to life as an area for residents and the local community to enjoy.
It’s been made possible thanks to a Housing Environmental Local Partnership (HELP) Agreement between the Council and Abri, and £7,107.26 from Abri’s Community Grant to Green Earth Plan.
Over the coming months, the land will be cleared, and new greenery, flowers, and seating installed.
A garden project day has been organised for local residents and children to get involved in creating the space in October.
“We know that being outdoors is good for our mental health and improves our wellbeing, but not everyone is able to enjoy the benefits of the world around them. That’s why we’re working with communities to connect more people to the outdoors,” said Lucy Davis, Community Development Officer at Abri.
“The garden project idea came from Shinewell Garden residents at one of our recent Community Action Days. And we’re excited to work with Green Earth Plan and Southampton City Council to make their idea come to life. It’s part of our mission to help create thriving communities and empower lives and our £15m five-year investment to make sure we’re driving change where it’s needed most.”
One picnic bench has already been installed, and the Council will be replacing the fencing and providing a rubbish bin for the area.
Councillor Spiros Vassiliou, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture & Heritage comments: “We’re pleased to offer our support to this garden project. It’s fantastic to see the community come together to create a greener, connected space for residents to enjoy.”
Zoe Macavoy, Founder and Director of Green Earth Plan said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Abri, Southampton City Council and the residents of Shinewell Gardens to create a new space that benefits both the local community, wildlife and increases biodiversity. This project is part of our nationwide urban greening campaign to 'Green Up Ours Streets' which supports projects that are good for people's physical and mental health and improve the environmental and economic value of urban areas.”
Anyone from the local area who would like to take part in the project day in October should email Lucy Davis, Abri’s Community Development Officer, or call on 07779 565929.
