A garden share scheme to grow food that aims to strengthen town and gown relations will officially launched on June 24th 2010. The project is being put into action by the Student Community Partnership (SCP) with support from Bath & North East Somerset Council working closely with the Volunteer Centres at the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, using funding from young volunteer service charity V-Inspired.
The Growing Together project will initially run in Oldfield Park, Bath where green-fingered local residents will use the gardens of properties where students are renting to grow their own food. Student volunteers from both Universities will encourage students living in the property to get to know the residents using the garden and even participate in the scheme themselves.
Councillor Will Sandry said, “This is an excellent way of bringing students and residents closer together, whilst at the same time maintaining a high standard of appearance in gardens. Bath & North East Somerset Council is delighted the lead role for the project is being played by the students, landlords, and residents. Communities taking the lead in shaping their local areas is a principle the Council is encouraging.”
The launch event will bring together the landlords and residents who have already expressed an interest in taking part in the scheme.
One of those landlords is Mark Flower who said, “I’m really keen to get involved in this scheme because there is a big desire and enthusiasm to grow our own food at the same time as using gardens which usually go untouched. I hope more landlords will see the benefits of getting involved and contact the Student Community Partnership.”
Joey Cozens-Smith, Bath Spa Students Union President, said, “We’re delighted to be part of the Growing Together project. It’s a great opportunity for students to play an active role in their community and we hope it’ll be a catalyst for people to get to know their neighbours.”
Daniel O’Toole, University of Bath Students Union President, added, “This scheme will make students’ gardens look more presentable and will also improve relations between students and neighbours improving the sense of community throughout the city.”
Find out more. Contact Anna Boneham – University of Bath Volunteer Coordinator on 01225 383198. Email: A.Boneham@bath.ac.uk
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