Just next to United Community Centre, Tarka have begun an exciting project to work with local residents to transform an area of unused land in Northam, Bideford, into a community orchard, raised beds and wildlife area.
The aim is for local families to be able to grow their own produce and learn new skills. This is a joint project between Tarka and the Bideford Sustainability Group (BSG), with support from Torridge District Council.
A local consultation meeting was held in February at the United Community Centre to establish local support. The aim is to have the project up and running in May 2011.
Paul Raeburn, Tarka’s Head of Customer and Communities, said “We are excited to be working with the Bideford Sustainability Group and local people on such a valuable project. This will allow families to cut down on increasing food costs and learn new skills and can only benefit the local area. We are pleased with the support from local councilors and particular thanks to Cllrs Miranda Cox and Andrew Eastman for their support with this project..”
Funding of £2,000 has been provided by Tarka Housing, plus £1,800 from Torridge District Council thanks to backing from Cllr Andrew Eastman and £800 from Cllr Miranda Cox.
Cllr Miranda Cox said, “I'm very happy to support this project for Morwenna's open space to grow fruit, veg, herbs etc for the community in whatever way they choose. I met many children who wanted to get involved as well as the adults and was impressed by the amount of skills and enthusiasm. I think that it's important to be able to grow our own local food. There's nothing like the taste of your home-grown, freshly picked tomatoes or strawberries."
Cllr Andrew Eastman said, "A community project such as the growing of fruit and vegetables for and by the residents of Morwenna is just the sort of enterprise to encourage everyone to acquire gardening skills. It also generates pride and confidence and in years to come we hope to hear that this group has achieved some outstanding results. As a local Councillor I am proud to launch this project with my discretionary grant. I am pleased to take this opportunity of wishing all the residents every success with this venture."
Bideford Sustainability Group (BSG) is a voluntary organisation, formed last summer. They to encourage people to grow, cook and preserve their own food, share skills, reduce waste, cope with rising energy and food prices, live lightly on the planet and have a good time whilst they go about it.
The Morwenna Park project is a really positive and exciting project, Tarka and the Morwenna community are all keen to make this community garden happen.