Residents have showed they ‘love where they live’ by adopting and transforming a plot of derelict land next to Failsworth Metrolink stop into a vibrant garden.
The locals, with help from Year Three pupils at nearby Mather Street Primary School, have planted shrubs and greenery and put surfacing in place.
Taking pride of place in the garden is a carved wooden owl – replacing the one that was vandalised a number of years ago.
Pupil Jessica Dooley has called the owl, which was donated by Transport for Greater Manchester, Mr Hooty and a plaque has also been put on site.
Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Co-operatives, said: “This new garden is a great example of residents of all ages showing pride in their area and pitching in to ‘do their bit’.
“The landscaping has vastly improved the look and shows that if members of the community just work together they can make a real difference.”
Sally Brown, headteacher at Mather Street Primary, said: “The new garden has really helped the area and increased the community feeling.
“We are very proud of year three and hope the activity encourages people to do the same in their areas. It’s also a plus because the work ties in with our school curriculum in science.”
Funding for the project came from the personal budget of Failsworth West ward councillor Sean Fielding; resident and chair of Failsworth Station Owl Group, Debbie Lasalle; and local businesses. It follows on from alley improvement work which was carried out in the area.
Residents on Hardman Lane and Manwaring Street are holding a plant sale on May 28 between noon and 4pm, which is open to the public.
