Published: Wednesday 30th November 2016 | 1.37pm
Following a successful award of £12,000 from the Tesco’s Bags of Help campaign, Inspiring healthy lifestyles and Cannock Chase District Council confirm that the redevelopment of land behind St Luke’s Church Centre is now scheduled for the end of November.
The land which has recently been a hub for anti-social behaviour will be transformed into a sensory garden that reflects the outstanding natural beauty of Cannock Chase in an urban setting.
Offering support for residents of Cannock looking to increase their levels of physical activity via green exercise, the project will also provide an oasis for those with disabilities and long term health needs.
Managing Director of Inspiring healthy lifestyles, Pete Burt said: “We are really grateful to Tesco for supporting this project. Seeing this garden come to life is a really exciting prospect for Inspiring healthy lifestyles and the local community.
“We hope local residents will get involved and help us to look after this special place for future generations.”
Plans for the garden include an informal section with trees and wild flowers and a more formal garden, which will include raised beds at varying heights to engage different users. A footpath will also be introduced connecting the underground to the town centre.
Redevelopment of the land will also include a series of tree works, with removal of several trees for health and safety reasons and to allow the remaining trees to thrive. This will increase the amount of light in to the site, deter anti-social behaviour and open up the garden views from the church centre.
Councillor Mitchell, Portfolio Leader for Culture and Sport at Cannock Chase Council said: “I am delighted that we have been successful with the funding for the Chase Fit Sensory Garden. This project will not only transform an overgrown piece of land it will also create a haven for those people with long term health issues."
The garden is expected to be completed by spring 2017.
Could you help to create and maintain the gardens or perhaps or support the project by donating materials? We are looking to engage volunteers and local businesses to support the project and create an urban green gem for the community of Cannock.
Please call Hettie Pigott, Wellbeing Coordinator for Inspiring healthy lifestyles on 01543 501516 for more information.