Residents at Laurel Gardens, Housing 21’s Extra Care scheme in Mancetter, Atherstone, officially opened their newly renovated garden space with a Summer Garden Party on Sunday 29 June.
The event followed the success of a resident-led funding application to Warwickshire City Council submitted by a resident, Patricia, which secured over £10,000 to enhance the outdoor space for the benefit of all who live at the scheme.
Patricia said: “I applied to the council for funding because I wanted to make the garden a more welcoming and enjoyable place for everyone here. I had a few meetings with them to talk through our ideas and was over the moon when the funding was approved.”
“It’s been a real labour of love, from planning and planting to building the raised beds and making sure the space felt special. I’m so pleased it’s now officially open – it means so much to me and my fellow residents to have somewhere we can all enjoy together.”
The transformed gardens now feature beautiful new patio furniture, hand crafted sleepers and garden planters, and relaxing water features, a new greenhouse, and even a garden irrigation system to help water the new plants.
Amanda Nestoruk, Housing and Care Manager at Laurel Gardens, said:
“This has been such a heart-warming, resident-led project that’s brought our whole community together. The garden has been transformed into a beautiful, peaceful space where residents can relax, connect with each other, and enjoy the outdoors.”
“I’m especially grateful to Patricia, whose dedication went above and beyond – from submitting the funding application to hand-building the planters and garden beds with the help of other residents. She’s poured so much love into making this space come alive, and it’s only right that we’ve named it ‘Pat’s Garden’ in her honour with a special commemorative plaque.”
"It’s now a wonderful place for both current and future residents to enjoy for years to come.”
The opening event bought together residents and their families, the local community, and special guests including the local fire and police services, the Mayor, and representatives from Housing 21. Guests were invited to explore the new space and enjoy summer refreshments in the garden during the celebration.
The re-opening of the garden reflects Housing 21’s commitment to enabling older people to live well and independently, with access to spaces that enhance their lifestyle and wellbeing.
For more information about Laurel Gardens, visit: www.housing21.org.uk/schemes/laurel-gardens