Initiated several years ago by a lady called Dorothy and local residents, Jubilee Gardens has become established as a woodland garden, with many shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, ferns, etc., and each summer bedding plants are planted and hanging baskets displayed.
Previously, vandalism around the disused toilet block had been a problem and the water butt had to be removed. However, in the last year, volunteers have gained access to a water tap and hose-pipe (thanks to the Civic Pride Fix it team), which is vital in summer. A Civic Pride volunteer also used his joinery skills to make a small lockable tool shed, situated next to the three compost bins.
Another recent project was to tidy up the overgrown and neglected corner by the toilet block. Brambles, nettles, tree saplings and weeds were cleared. Rose bushes have been planted each year, and, with various spring plants and bulbs, it is on its way to being more appealing.
In June 2024, helped by fundraising from a local family and Rossendale council, a new bench was installed in the gardens to match the existing one, a welcome place to sit for a while for locals and visitors.
The central jubilee name plaque always provides a challenge as there is very little depth of soil for growing anything. Fortunately, the children of a nearby family enjoy putting plants in, and with more constant attention and water it is now more colourful. Future plans are to repaint it and make it more eye catching.
Our aim is to tidy up the area and encourage people to walk through or sit in the gardens. We plan to introduce flowers which will put a smile on the faces of those passing by whilst encouraging pollinating insects and the frogs and toads.