Time to celery-brate at Vellan Court

Seventy-one-year-old Michael Cole, who has lived at Vellan Court for eight years, came up with the idea to turn an unused washing-line area into a community allotment that would benefit the whole neighbourhood. He approached us for permission earlier this year and then set about transforming the once unloved space into a colourful, wheelchair-friendly garden. 

Michael has carried out most of the work to create the garden by himself, with support and some materials provided by the Decent Neighbourhoods team. The team supplied concrete planters and B&Q donated other items for the garden. Michael has installed a fence, shed and a greenhouse and constructed raised beds so that people with limited mobility can still get involved and have a go at gardening.  Benches and picnic tables will provide Vellan Court residents with somewhere to sit and relax outdoors.

Michael has already planted lots of produce including tomatoes, potatoes, onions and carrots that will soon be ready to harvest. He is hoping his neighbours will roll up their sleeves and join him in the garden when it is officially opened to residents later this autumn.

Michael said: “So many residents here are stuck in their flats all day, I wanted to do something that would help get people out into the fresh air. I thought a community vegetable garden would be an ideal way to bring people together to enjoy socialising and growing veg that they can later dig up and eat. Everyone will be welcome to come along, whether to have a go at growing or simply to sit and enjoy a coffee in the sunshine.

“I’ve already received lots of positive comments and encouragement from other residents who have seen the garden taking shape. I’m just glad to be doing my bit for our local community to help make Vellan Court an even nicer place to live!”

If Michael’s story has inspired you to create a communal garden where you live please contact your Local Housing Office or get in touch  to find out more about our Decent Neighbourhoods programme which has already provided funding and support for several community allotment projects across the city.