Funding will create new event space for Matlock residents
A community garden in Matlock is set to expand its activities after receiving funds from Platform Housing Group’s Community Chest Fund.
The funding will help Hurst Farm Regeneration Limited, also known as Hurst Farm Wild Works, complete a new event and connection space at the Farmers Community Garden on Hazel Grove.
The garden has already transformed previously unused land into a space where residents can grow food, learn new skills and develop supportive relationships.
Fresh produce grown by volunteers is made available free of charge to members of the community pantry and used by the community cafe.
The next stage of the project will add fencing, a covered storage area and a market stall, creating a flexible space for community events, training and activities for people of all ages.
The grant will pay for the new fencing, with additional funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund purchasing timber, materials and labour to construct the covered area and market stall. The work will be led by skilled woodworker and Community Activity Leader Simon Allsopp, supported by local volunteers.
Lisa Newton, Business Development Manager at Hurst Farm Regeneration Limited said: “The Farmers Community Garden has transformed an unused piece of land into somewhere local people can grow food, learn skills, spend time outdoors and feel part of their community.
“This funding will help us complete the next important stage of the garden by creating a safe and flexible space where people of all ages can meet, take part in activities and build connections with each other and with nature.
“The market stall will also allow us to sell items produced through the garden, including honey, beeswax candles, plants and handmade wooden products. This will help generate income and make the garden more sustainable and less reliant on grant funding in the future."
The expanded garden will provide activities for children and families to learn about food growing, as well as opportunities for young people building on the success of the existing Youth Ranger programme.
Around 130 people are expected to benefit from the project, including approximately 50 Platform customers living at Hurst Farm.
The garden is open from 10.00am until 4.00pm, Monday to Thursday, and is supported by an experienced team of staff and volunteers.