North Devon Gazette, Devon, UK 01 February 2006 Community garden will help growth in jobs [EMAIL PROTECTED]
A community garden is being planned to help North Devon people get back to work. Bideford Town Council has provided the Barnstaple-based Jigsaw charity with unused allotment land at East-the-Water, where it plans to create the region's first community vegetable plot. But first it is calling on local people to come forward with their ideas for the project. Two days of public consultation will take place at the Pollyfield Centre, which overlooks the site, on February 10 and 11. The days will also feature a variety of events such as DJ workshops, family activities, a barbecue and a scarecrow competition for primary and secondary children and over-16s. Jigsaw, initially a furniture project, has for more than 20 years offered skills training in furniture restoration, upholstery and picture framing to marginalised groups such as youth offenders, those recovering from substance abuse and people with learning difficulties and mental illness. The scheme has also had a green element by bringing new life to redundant furniture. Now it hopes to go even greener and to be able to accommodate more trainees. "Many people find growing plants and vegetables therapeutic," said manager Kim Edwards. "We are looking at raising crops organically to provide another source of locally-grown food." Harvests could be distributed in a box scheme, sold at farmers' markets or even into shops, she said. Workers might also be offered the opportunity to gain horticultural qualifications. And the innovative scheme could also help people on incapacity benefit, putting North Devon one step ahead of Government moves to help claimants back into employment. Kim and Jigsaw co-ordinator Neal Moss have visited similar enterprises elsewhere in the country and are convinced the idea at East-the-Water is viable. "Apart from growing vegetables, the site could include a sensory garden or even a play area," said Kim. "It is a fantastic opportunity for everyone. That is why it is important for us to know what local people want." The idea has already gained the backing of the famous Eden Project in Cornwall. "Jigsaw came to Eden for a tour and we offered what advice we could," said an Eden spokesman. "We wish them every success for what seems a very worthy project. ______________________________________________________ The American Community Gardening Association listserve is only one of ACGA's services to community gardeners. To learn more about the ACGA and to find out how to join, please go to http://www.communitygarden.org To post an e-mail to the list: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, unsubscribe or change your subscription: https://secure.mallorn.com/mailman/listinfo/community_garden
