Local Community Opens the Door to Islington Residents

Members of Peter Bedford Housing Association’s  Isledon Road Community celebrated the completion of an Ecominds gardening project in December 2011 by opening their doors to the local Islington community. Funded by Ecominds and delivered by Peter Bedford Housing Association with Groundwork (London), the Roots & Boots project revamped the rear courtyard garden over the summer.  Peter Bedford tenants from surrounding properties pulled together to clear, landscape and plant the garden. Clare Hillman, Horticultural Therapist, said that the project has been successful in strengthening community spirit and encouraged residents to connect with their natural environment. “This ‘connection’ has proven benefits for physical and mental wellbeing,” said Roots & Boots Project coordinator Paul Woodmin.

A boundary wall has been brought to life with a flower and rainbow mosaic mural which involved many hours of painstaking work designed and created by the PBHA Mosaic class.

Wholesome and hearty seasonal food was served by the Iseldon Canteen catering team to warm the constant stream of visitors to the property.

"It’s been great. Events like this take ages to organise, but the turnout has been fantastic” said Padraig Caffery (Isledon Road tenant and event organiser).