A once overgrown patch of land in Derbyshire has been transformed into a thriving community garden, thanks to a £10,000 grant from Platform Housing Group.
Platform Housing Group – one of the largest housing associations in the region – donated the funds to Hurst Farm Community Garden in Matlock.
The project has seen dramatic improvements over the past year, delivering a secure, productive garden space that will this year begin supplying fresh vegetables and salad to local residents through the Farmer’s Larder (Community Pantry) and the Milk Churn Cafe.
Helen Boocock, Trustee at Hurst Farm Regeneration Ltd said: “Just over a year ago, this site was covered in brambles, weeds and saplings. Thanks to Platform Housing’s support and the dedication of our volunteers and staff, we’ve turned scrubland into something truly valuable for the community. We could not have got this far without Platform’s help.”
A significant portion of the funding – almost £6,000 – was used to install secure metal fencing, gates and posts to secure the site and ensure the space can flourish. All of the work to erect this was carried out by volunteers and staff over many months.
Another key investment was in wooden sleepers used to construct the first six raised beds, a vital feature as the land is affected by lead contamination. Raised beds allow safe growing conditions for produce. Additional funding was used for weed suppressant, soil improver, seeds and tools, equipping the garden for its first full growing season. Existing beds have been topped up and a second set of six have been completed, expanding the site’s growing capacity even further. The site’s volunteer beekeeper is also producing local honey.
The trustees at Hurst Farm applied to Platform’s Community Chest, a funding pot for Platform customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting Platform customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on its Customer Voice Panel.
The initiative is part of the wider Hurst Farm Wild Works Project, which supports the Hurst Farm estate residents in creating a thriving and vibrant community; it is supported by Derbyshire Dales District Council.
Lisa Fairlie, Director of Housing Operations at Platform Housing Group said: “We have been involved with the Hurst Farm communities for a substantial period of time and we are delighted to be able to support its endeavours which brings such benefits to people who live locally. It is truly heartwarming to see how the collective garden is still having such a positive impact on residents.”
