Accent Housing customers at Aprilia Court in Bradford came together on Wednesday 27 August to celebrate the completion of a special community garden project, made possible through a partnership between the national housing association and Ian Williams, one of Accent’s key contractors.
The project, part of Ian Williams’ commitment to giving back to local communities, saw the installation of new raised garden beds in the scheme’s communal garden. These beds have been designed with accessibility in mind and will give residents the chance to grow their own flowers, vegetables, herbs, or whatever they choose, right on their doorstep.
To mark the occasion, customers gathered in the sunshine for a celebratory tea party. Laughter, chatter, and plenty of tea and cake set the tone for the day, while the scheme’s much-loved mascot, Rita the tortoise, was on hand to give the raised beds her seal of approval.
Specialist Housing Partner, Zehnum Hussain, who has been working closely with customers throughout the project, said: “This has been such a rewarding initiative. It’s been wonderful to see residents get involved and take real ownership of the garden. The new raised beds are a fantastic addition, and we now have a team of residents who are keen to keep the project going and make the most of them.”
The raised beds now form a vibrant extension to the already beautifully maintained garden outside the communal lounge, creating a welcoming space for residents to relax, grow, and spend time together.
The Aprilia Court initiative is just the start. Accent and Ian Williams are also collaborating on similar projects at Morrell Court in Bradford, with hopes to extend the idea to Saxondale Court in Wakefield in the near future.
Commnity Development Partner Heather Jacklin added “It’s been an absolute treat working with our residents and Zehnum throughout this project. This is about much more than simply gardening, It’s about community, wellbeing, and creating spaces that bring people together.”