Blackburn greenhouse project is growing stronger

A green-fingered project is using nature to help heal those who have suffered poor mental and physical health during the pandemic.

Myplace is a Lancashire Wildlife Trust project supporting people to get outside and enjoy the natural world – with the added bonus of learning about food growing.

Myplace is working with Blackburn and Darwen Council and Sport England to breathe new life into the greenhouses at Witton Country Park, formerly used by the Council to grow bedding plants.

Andy Mather, Myplace Project Officer said: “The greenhouses are an amazing untapped resource and have the potential to become a great community space.

“It’s a very large greenhouse complex consisting of five greenhouses and an interlinking corridor. We took them on in April and since then the project has gone from strength to strength.”

The group are currently in the process of clearing the area in front of the greenhouses to create a forest garden and food growing area.

He added: “Our vision is for the greenhouses to be transformed into a growing, learning and wellbeing hub for members of the local community to enjoy. The project is supporting the Blackburn with Darwen Food Resilience Alliance to achieve its sustainable food town status

“People have been isolated and some have been really keen to get out and do something. These sessions are a gentle first step towards a more active life for many. There is something for everyone.

“Food and nature transcend cultural boundaries, ages and gender. It’s something everyone can appreciate.”

The group, which run sessions five days a week, also plan to create a nature library with sofas and use the greenhouse glass for artistic expression as well as other activities such as table tennis and workshops on traditional crafts and sustainable living.

Andy added: “We’re proud of our partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council for the use of the greenhouses and the opportunity to bring them back to life in a way that benefits many across our towns in ways not thought of in the past.”

Councillor Jackie Floyd, chair of Blackburn with Darwen Food Resilience Alliance, stated “This is one of many projects being delivered through the partnership of the Blackburn with Darwen Food Alliance.

“Our aim is to tackle food poverty and encourage sustainable living by reducing food waste, support more local people to grow their own food and to gain skills for employment in the future food economy. Everyone is working together to make sure everyone our borough has access to healthy food choices.”

Blackburn with Darwen’s Director of Public Health Dominic Harrison added: “It’s great to see a project encouraging people to get active outdoors in our wonderful green spaces. Being physically active and close to nature has positive effects on both our physical and mental health.”

As part of this work, new volunteer and trainee positions are being created. If you would like to find out more visit the Lancashire Wildlife Trust website – https://www.lancswt.org.uk/our-work/projects/myplace