Celebrating Canadian links at Toronto Court

Toronto Court was the first supported housing complex built in Southampton back in 1951. It was funded by the Lord Mayor of London’s air raid distress grant, which the people of Toronto kindly contributed to, in response to Southampton’s support for their troops during the war. When it was completed, the scheme was proudly named in recognition of the Canadians’ generosity and this heritage is still celebrated today. 

A Canadian brown bear display and a carving of a maple leaf above the main entrance are a constant reminder of the Court’s Canadian links. And now, following requests from residents, a new hand-carved wooden totem pole has recently been installed in the communal garden area. The sculpture, which has been funded by the Decent Neighbourhoods programme, was designed by local artist Chris Cudlip. It features creatures including an eagle and a rabbit and takes inspiration from a previous totem pole which originally honoured the Algonquin native American tribe of Ontario.

Local resident Dave, who has lived at Toronto Court for 20 years is delighted that the history of the complex is still celebrated today.

Dave said: “The new totem pole is another reminder of our links to Canada and will help to keep this history alive for many more years to come. We have a photo album in the community room containing black and white photos from the opening ceremony and the early days of Toronto Court. The sweet sycamore in the gardens here that was just a sapling back in 1951 is now one of the biggest trees on the Millbrook estate!”

The wooden totem pole is the latest community project to be funded by the Decent Neighbourhoods programme – a fund which aims to improve council neighbourhoods in partnership with local residents.

Other recent projects have included a new car park at Honister Close in Millbrook, resurfaced footpaths at Montague Avenue in Sholing and several community gardens across the city. One upcoming project for 2024 will see Decent Neighbourhoods funding used to create a new accessible footpath and install new seating areas, play and fitness equipment at International Way in Weston. Check out future issues of Tenants’ Link for updates on this exciting project.