Project Orton has been started by Up The Garden Bath, a Peterborough-based charity who source unwanted materials such as old bathtubs, tyres and mattresses and upcycle them into garden planters to show just how much can actually be repurposed rather than thrown away.
The project will run over the next 12 months and see members work with local councillors, youth organisations and the community in the Ortons to transform run down areas into community pop-up pollinator parks designed to encourage inner city wildlife.
Community litter picks and the clearance of larger dumped items will also be arranged in an effort to reduce fly-tipping and encourage people to take more care of their local area.
Over 50 resident volunteers have been recruited to assist with carrying out the project, with steering groups set up on Facebook to allow the local community to give their input into the designs and features. Up The Garden Bath have also appointed local residential representatives from each of the planned rejuvenation areas to help encourage more resident participation.
The project is being funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner Board, as well as Orton Waterville Parish Council. It is also being supported by Youth Inspired, with member Carl Storm organising a group of volunteers to transform the areas. It was due to start in August last year, but due to delays caused by the pandemic, volunteers kicked off the project today in Kilham and Brudenell in Orton Goldhay.
In Kilham, three planters made from recycled decking wood were built, with between four and eight plants in each, with each planter painted in vibrant colours.
While in Brudenell, three existing grass areas in the shape of triangles were regenerated with planters from recycled pallets, with 30 plants in each. Bug hotels were also installed, weeds were cleared up and a general tidy up took place in both areas.
Spokesperson for Up The Garden Bath Kez Hayes Palmer said: “We really wanted to involve the community and create a space that they can be really proud of.”
One resident said: “It has given the area and real buzz and we are very grateful to Up The Garden Bath for making it happen. It was in desperate need of something like this, over time it has become very rundown and riddled with litter.
“I’m delighted with the lift it’s given the area and the fact that so many residents came out to help too.”
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Residents Josh Hannon, Becky Graves, Chloe Hannon and Lloyd Moss get involved with the planting at Brudenell, Orton Goldhay. Photo: Midlands
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Sophie Beary, Colby Grace, Grace Beary, Alice Beary and Danie Beary also helping out. Photo: Midlands
