BBC Gardeners’ World site to become community garden

BBC Gardeners’ World site to become community garden

The land formerly used for the BBC television programme Gardeners’ World is to become a community garden focusing on education run by the University of Birmingham’s Winterbourne House and Garden.

The site, owned by King Edward School, was leased by the BBC for use in filming the hit television show.

The plot is located next to Winterbourne House and Garden, the 7 acre botanic garden and heritage attraction. Using the Greenacres site will allow Winterbourne to expand its work with schools and the local community.

Alison Darby, Head of Winterbourne explains ‘We are very pleased to be managing the Greenacres site, especially as it gives us the opportunity to expand our work with local groups and schools such as Lordswood Girls’ who are eager to make use of a green space in the heart of the city.

‘The University has a strong commitment to community engagement and working collaboratively with local groups of all ages and backgrounds, and this project continues this work.’

‘The young people working on the site will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty gardening, studying wildlife or even working on outdoor craft projects. Having this area specifically for their use is something we are thrilled to be able to offer.’

Jayne Bacon, teacher and Green Team Coordinator at Lordswood said ‘This is a fabulous opportunity to extend the excellence of Lordswood Girls’ through the magnificence of Winterbourne Garden, and vice versa.

‘Our amazing staff and students relish this chance to contribute to Birmingham’s green and growing future, and to showcase the hardwork and diligence of our local young people.’

Winterbourne will be opening the community garden for behind the scenes tours on special events days. The main garden is open to the public 7 days a week with weekend events and activities taking place throughout the year.

To the Winterbourne Press Office, please call Anna Williams: Tel: 0121 414 9113 or email a.m.williams [a] bham.ac (p) uk