Issue - meetings

To consider the establishment of a small community garden project adjacent to the council building at West Wing Knowle Green.

The Committee considered a report on a proposed community garden project. The Group Head Commissioning and Transformation explained that community gardens provided opportunities for individuals to grow their own food, socialise, and provided mental health and wellbeing benefits. If the committee agreed, West Wing Knowle Green residents would be consulted over interest in a community garden, and would be offered to provide input on an appropriate location. Wilmott Dixon would contribute towards the community garden as part of their social value contribution in their role as contractor for the leisure centre scheme.

The Committee noted that both flowers and vegetables were proposed for the garden and there would be no poisonous plants. The project would also present community learning opportunities, and if successful, proposals for other sites would be considered. The Committee confirmed that the proposed contribution from Willmott Dixon would cover the cost of the project.

It was proposed by Councillor Doran, and seconded by Councillor Rybinski that the recommendation be amended to state “to approve the community garden project in principal and consultation with West Wing Knowle Green residents, and if the residents wish to proceed on a particular site, agree that site between Group Heads in consultation with the Chair of Community Wellbeing and Housing.”

The Committee resolved to approve the community garden project in principal and consultation with West Wing Knowle Green residents, and if the residents wish to proceed on a particular site, agree that site between Group Heads in consultation with the Chair of Community Wellbeing and Housing.