Property developer joins forces with local councillors to improve community wildflower garden

An overgrown public space near The Quarters in Manadon Park, Plymouth, has been transformed into a community garden thanks to the combined efforts of a team of local Councillors, a community group, One Small Candle, and South West-based property developers, Burrington Estates New Homes.

A tree planting ceremony recently took place to mark the occasion with representatives from all parties taking part, including local Councillors, Ian and Lynda Bowyer, David Saunders from One Small Candle and local landscaper, Alan Martin. Gemma Smith, Head of Marketing, Natalie Tucker, Sales Manager, Mike Crawford, Head of Construction, and Steve Richards, Site Manager, attended on behalf of Burrington Estates New Homes.

The public space, located at the entrance to Warspite Gardens in Manadon Park, is now a wildflower garden with new plants, a timber bench and a Red Leaf Ornamental Plum tree. This particular type of tree is low maintenance and will enhance the appearance of the garden.

The Quarters, a collection of two, three and four bedroom homes by Burrington Estates New Homes, is just a short walk from the wildflower garden. The developer wanted to improve the appearance of the area for the benefit of the local community and will maintain the garden for the duration of the build at The Quarters, which is set to be completed in late 2019. Local landscaper Chris Seymour, from Plant Tech, has been helping to rejuvenate the space in the past and will continue to do so when the new homes are finalised.

Colin Palmer, Managing Director of Burrington Estates New Homes, said: “Working to enhance local communities is the cornerstone of what we do. The wildflower garden, which has been overgrown for many years, will become a place where the whole community can come together, whether it's for strolls, community events or dog walking.”

Lynda Bowyer, City Councillor for Eggbuckland, said: “I’m delighted to see that Burrington Estates have engaged so positively with Manadon Park residents by supporting this environmental improvement to the estate. The area will be greatly enhanced for all to enjoy.”

David Saunders, founder of community group, One Small Candle, approached Burrington Estates to seek their support for the project.  “The area had been overgrown and neglected in the past and I always thought something needed to be done to beautify this area. When we approached Burrington Estates they were quick to respond and generously supplied flowers, plants and even contributed a lovely bench for people to sit and enjoy the space,” said David.

Burrington Estates New Homes currently have three sites in Plymouth – The Quarters, Manadon Park, Notre Dame, Looseleigh Lane and an upcoming development in Colebrook, Plympton.