2016 saw new members of staff come to Beyond the Wall, to support people to engage with meaningful activities and learn new life skills and also to support the rejuvenation of the walled garden into a colourful and beautiful space, that when complete could be reopened to the public.
Initially the garden rejuvenation project was estimated to reach fruition within a three year period, but it was clear six months in, that the hard work, drive and dedication of everyone who worked in the garden was well ahead of schedule. With clients, support workers, volunteers and staff as well as members of the local community all pitching in with time, energy and plants as well as being resourceful and creative. The double border was planted up in the spring of 2017 and has grown hugely and been a colourful jewel in the centre of the garden.
The polytunel has been cleared, this space and the large greenhouses have been highly productive, producing fresh vegetables during the winter and all the way through the summer, and we have even been picking melons recently, a great tasting treat!
With walls cleared of ivy, trees pruned and borders revitalised as well as hedges tamed and now starting to take on their new neat shape, the whole garden has been transformed, even the vegetable beds and pond have been reconfigured, so that they are both productive and look great.
With staff pursuing fundraising bids, new plants are being bought to replace ones that had died, to revitalise the borders. Gravel has started to arrive, to bring a fresh new crunch when walking along the formal paths.
Even the aging greenhouse rafters have been given an overhaul, to get them looking smart, and ensuring that they last well into the future.
The spaces outside the walled garden are also being looked after with Yew hedging starting to undergo a two year pruning plan, even our bonfire site was landscaped so that it looks more attractive.
The last 12 months has seen a huge transformation in the garden, a transformation that is the product of a community of people all working together with a shared vision of making the garden an amazing space to work within and or visit. But the work does not stop there. With plans for further projects in the garden afoot, Beyond the Wall are excited to be offering the opportunity for members of the public to be a part of the team who will ensure the service and garden go form strength to strength. You can volunteer with us, spending just a few hours a week or even a whole day, supporting the various activities and projects we run. Take a look at our website for more details ( www.beyondthewall.org.uk ) , or follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram, as we share what’s going on ‘Beyond the Wall’.