Blantyre Miners Welfare Community Garden
Project Description
The project took over of a piece of derelict ground approx 4000 square yards and turned it into a garden that has supported the community in various projects (including charity lunches, presentations and plant sales).
This piece of land was a building site in 2020 when acquired and although the work carried out that year was minimal due to COVID-19, it has been transformed into a community garden. With the support of a small group of volunteers, trees have been chopped down, a serenity garden planted, and 2 polytunnels, 2 purpose-built cabins and 3 working sheds have been built. A fully functioning working toilet is also now on site.
Local schoolchildren attended weekly throughout 2023 and grew their own produce (pumpkins, potatoes, tomatoes, peas). The SLC school chef attended and encouraged the children in making healthy meals. This is an entirely organic garden.
During the harvesting months, the garden supplies fresh fruit and vegetables to the local food bank, drop-in centre and warm hub. The volunteers here are also instrumental in the placing of 40-50 planters & pots around the area in the summer months.
Supporting Statement
The project's description speaks for itself but has also been widely recognised. This garden has been a true reflection of how a community can pull together, in both financial and physical support. It has been part of entries into Keep Scotland Beautiful (Gold Award 2022) and Britain in Bloom (Silver Gilt Award 2023). The garden was showcased on the BBC One Show and STV news as an example of how things can be turned around.Most recently, they were presented a thank you card from the Lord Lieutenant of South Lanarkshire. They have played host to the First Minster of Scotland and various MPs and Councillors over the last year.
All this for a town which is classed as a deprived area.