A relaxing Oasis in Denton

07/04/2008

 This week saw the official opening of Dixon Road Communal Gardens, Denton by New Charter Housing Trust Group’s CEO Ian Munro.
Barry Harrison & Brian Spencer, whose vision it was to turn an underused area of land into an idyllic oasis, which would bring people together and build community spirit, joined Ian at the ribbon cutting.

 

Barry 65 and Brian 68 first met in Singapore when serving with the 1st Battalion The Cheshire Regiment and it is that army camaraderie that drove these two on to accomplish their dream. A dream that had come to light shortly after they had completed a ‘Designing Communal Gardens’ course at the National Communities Resource Centre, Trafford Hall, Chester.
Barry said:

 

“ We both wanted to have a little garden where we could happily sit and chat with our neighbours when the good weather comes. It was hard work raising the money but now when we sit back and look around at the magnificent surroundings it was well worth the effort.” 

The gardens are part of the New Charter Housing Trust Group sheltered scheme and are accessible from every bungalow.  There are three planted tree areas; a quiet sheltered area and residents are using the garden for exercise. They are also forming an action group to look at entering the North West in Bloom competition.

A spokesperson for New Charter said:
“When Barry and Brian first approached us to help fund their vision we didn’t hesitate. They were determined to have the gardens completed before the good weather arrived, and they have succeeded”.

The money for the project came from New Charter Housing Trust Group, Denton South Partnership via Safer Stronger Communities Funding, Glass House and Manchester Airport Community Fund