Blantyre Community Garden

Officials , volunteers and local residents officially opened the brand new Blantyre Community Garden last night adjacent to the Rowan Hall.

The serene and transformed outdoor space at the Blantyre Soccer Academy, officially called “Blantyre Community Garden”, was the product of many months of hard work which aimed to create a functional community garden space, and also offer a quiet place of remembrance for Blantyre victims of the Covid pandemic. 

So much hard work has gone into creating this project. Volunteers, the Blantyre Community Trust, staff from BSA and many other individuals not only built the structures but also planted up the area, which sits just off Glasgow Road. There’s no evidence remaining of the former derelict and unused ground. How wonderful it all looks. Garden furniture and benches offers plenty seating and a water feature compliments the brand new stone memorial. The attractive plants, donated by the community provide colour and a pleasing appearance and the polytunnel sits kitted out with equipment and planters, awaiting those who wish to use it.

The opening ceremony took place at 7pm on Thursday 1st July 2021. The cutting of the gate ribbon was made by MSP Clare Haughey, who also took time to plant the beautiful oak tree, which her family kindly donated. Attending also were Councillors Maureen Chalmers and Mo Razzaq. 

However, the star of the show was Josephine McQuade, a local Blantyre resident who had the honour of cutting the ribbon to unveil the memorial itself, within the garden. Josephine was just one of many local residents from nearby who took time to come along and see the finished garden.

BSA spokesperson Jimmy Whelan, thereafter made a short speech in celebration and thanks were offered for everybody’s efforts. Drinks, a buffet and refreshments were then offered to attendees. The space was also officially handed over to the public, noting individuals are most welcome to come along, have a coffee, use the building for starting any small clubs or simply to sit in the sun and reflect.

BSA have once again put the community at the forefront of their endeavours and we think this little space, nestled in amongst surrounding houses, is just perfect. 

Thanks to BSA for their kindness.

Photo Courtesy: Blantyre Telegraph

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•