Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Residents show off new garden

by Ethos public relations

Contour Homes residents at Newbarn Court sheltered scheme in Blackburn recently invited the local community to attend an open day marking the official opening of the newly renovated gardens.

Last year Scheme Manager Ann Whitehead was delighted to learn that Newbarn Court had successfully secured a £10,000 Big Lottery grant to transform the existing residents’ garden, situated to the side of the scheme on Rockliffe Street. The work has now been completed.

“Not only can residents take advantage of the lovely new garden but it has also had an impact on resident enquiries,” said Ann. “Since completion we have had more enquiries about living here than ever before and all our flats have now been let.”

The garden make over has seen the lawn extended and a new patio area has been laid complete with garden furniture and potted plants making it a welcoming retreat for residents. The rear of the garden has been brightened up with two raised flower beds, which are tended to by children from nearby Longshaw Junior School, who come on a regular basis to plant and weed the beds.

“It’s great for the children as they have had fun learning how to grow things from our residents. It’s always nice to see the older and young generations getting on so well together,” adds Ann.

The open day included lots of activities from tombola to a tattooist. Service providers including Contour Homes, Eldercare and the Police were available to give information and advice and all proceeds of the event are being donated to charity.

68 year old Bernard Mullen, Chair of the Newbarn Court Residents Association explained how the transformation of the gardens has made a difference to the community. “Residents can take advantage of the sunlight hours and sit on the patio having tea, coffee and refreshments,” he said. “It is also a delight to take your friends and family to sit down in comfort and enjoy the fresh air.”

Posted at 14^th October 2010