Overview

WoodBlocX modular raised planters were specified for the community growing space at West Gorton Community Park, a sustainable greenspace designed to encourage biodiversity, tackle drainage and create a sense of community in Manchester.

This collaborative project involved Manchester City Council, The Guinness Partnership and the University of Manchester, with BDP commissioned to manage the landscape architecture and Groundwork Greater Manchester managing the community engagement element.

Accessible planters

Groundwork consulted the local community to ensure the park included elements that they agreed should form part of the space; this included gardens and space for planting and play.

BDP specified WoodBlocX modular raised planters for the community growing space. 10 rectangular planters were used, with several designs incorporating wheelchair-access planting stations. These provide space beneath the planter for the wheelchair and table-top area above for potting whilst allowing the users to access the growing space.

The planters are used to grow vegetables and herbs and are looked after by a group of volunteers who live in the 500-home development.

A sense of community

Researchers working on the project have already recorded a rise in the number of people using the community park, contributing to enhanced physical well-being. The combination of gardens, that residents can use as their own, greenspace and play areas at West Gorton Community Park is a great example of how a functional park space can bring a community together whilst serving an important environmental purpose.