The Courtenay Centre celebrates new community garden

The Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot is thrilled to announce the opening of its community garden which has been created so local people can have more of a connection to nature alongside the Courtenay Centre facilities.

The popular Newton Abbot community centre hopes that the garden will provide an outdoor space for existing groups and activities, as well as a growing space for fruit, vegetables and flowers. The garden also hosts two ‘bug hotels’ and ‘hot composting’ bins which will compost waste from the Courtenay Centre Café.

Creation of the community garden has been made possible through funding from Hubbub, Live West and the Naturesave Trust. Food in the Community, Pollernize, Jewson Partnership Solutions and Bovey Landscapes have all donated plants, materials and time to the project.

John Addy, Chair of Newton Abbot Centre Association said: “We are very grateful for the support we have received with the community garden, and look forward to welcoming both existing centre users and new visitors into this outdoor space. The garden that we are creating is a space where people can enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation, as well as learn practical gardening skills. I would particularly like to thank the project funders and the volunteers who have helped bring the garden to life.”

Lesley Browne, Community Connector for LiveWest, said: “We recognise the value that community hubs like the Courtney Centre play in our communities. They offer not only opportunities for recreation and social purpose but also support to those in need.

“Our social value offer helps us to develop our services further and ensures that community hubs can continue to thrive and meet the needs of the community. The garden project will provide opportunities for local schools to get involved with and help develop skills in young people who will benefit from future activities here.”

LiveWest, which has a mixture of homes in the area, has supported the outdoor project by donating nearly £2,000 in materials through the social value rebate scheme with Jewson Partnership Solutions. This contribution enables residents to benefit from the centre, where they can engage in a variety of activities and access an essential community fridge.

The Project received a £500 grant from the Naturesave Trust. The Trust is funded by the activities
of Naturesave Insurance, the UK’s leading ethical insurance provider for individuals, businesses, charities and community groups.

The garden features several raised beds which are stocked with vegetables and flowers, as well as a covered seating area. Future plans include the provision of a wildlife area, and the addition of more fruit and vegetables.

The Courtenay Centre is hosting an open afternoon for the garden on Thursday 26th September from 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Anyone is welcome to go along and enjoy the garden and find out how you can get involved.

The Centre is looking for volunteers to help look after the growing space. Regardless of your previous experience, if you would like to learn new skills and enjoy time outdoors, please contact Alex Gurpinar via alex@newtonabbotcic.org.uk.