Neglected wastelands in Hounslow become thriving educational gardens. They teach about nature, food growth, and sustainability.
Work started in autumn 2023 on these sites, which were once neglected and empty. Children and adults now learn about nature while also learning about growing food. Biodiversity and sustainability are also covered.
Jim Carter, known for playing Carson in Downton Abbey, praised the project. He wants all councils to copy Hounslow.
Jim said he visited the first site last year, and now six sites are running well. He thinks “Grow for the Future” is great as it uses unused land for good. Schools and people grow food and flowers. He wants every UK council to do this.
Henley’s Orchard, which had issues with crime, now has fruit trees and lavender. They plan learning sessions there, and local people can join summer groups.
Another improved spot is Lampton Community Garden, where volunteers and kids helped transform it. It was full of weeds and trash, but now it’s a place to learn. People there learn to make compost, and about worm farms and plants.
Westmacott Orchard had lots of dumped trash, but kids helped change this site. Now, wildflowers and fruit trees grow; other spots got makeovers too. Manor Gardens and other areas are better now.
The council got £165,000 in funds. This money helped the first six sites. They now hope to expand the project, intending to add four sites each year.
Councillor Salman Shaheen said it helps teach healthy living, as many people in Hounslow struggle with obesity. He said sites are open to children who learn where food comes from and how to grow food. This teaches life skills and about nature.