Charlea Community Gardens is a Community Interest Company (CIC) established in 2016, run entirely by dedicated volunteers from the local community.
Our vision is to transform the neglected one-acre field behind Queens Court flats in Brimscombe, Stroud, Gloucestershire, into a thriving Community Farm and Gardens. This initiative will expand upon the existing Charlea Community Garden site, creating a hub for community engagement, education, and sustainable living.
The field holds a special place in the hearts of many locals, as it was once home to a beloved play area from the 1950s until 2018, when the land was lost to private development. It left a void in our community. After numerous failed planning applications, the site was put back on the market.
We seized the opportunity to reacquire this precious space for community use.
Our project addresses the pressing need for accessible green spaces in Brimscombe and Thrupp. Currently, there are no other community play areas or public parks in the vicinity.
Our plans include a natural play area where children can explore and learn through play, community growing spaces for cultivating fruits and vegetables, and designated zones for biodiversity and wildlife conservation.
We also envision a space for livestock, which will provide educational opportunities about animal care and sustainable farming practices, expanding upon the foundations of the current Pig & Chicken clubs that are a much loved part of the existing Charlea Community Gardens.
We need your help to raise £12,000 to make this vision a reality.
These funds will be used to set up essential infrastructure, purchase tools and materials, and kickstart the development of the community space. Specific projects include:
- Installing a natural play area with safe, sustainable materials.
- Creating raised garden beds for community use.
- Planting fruit trees and establishing a small orchard.
- Building enclosures for livestock.
- Enhancing biodiversity with native plants and wildlife habitats.
Our team is made up of passionate volunteers who bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the project. From horticulturists and educators to local residents who simply love gardening, each member is committed to making Charlea Community Gardens a success. We believe in the power of community and are excited to work together to create a space that everyone can enjoy.
The Community Farm and Gardens will serve multiple purposes:
Educational Hub: We hope to offer a location for workshops and classes on gardening, sustainable living, and environmental conservation. Schools and local groups will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning experiences.
Community Gathering Space: The farm and gardens will provide a welcoming space for community events, social gatherings, and volunteer activities, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Food Security: By creating community growing spaces, we aim to promote local food production and provide fresh produce to local residents, contributing to food security and healthy living.
Environmental Stewardship: Our project will enhance local biodiversity through the planting of native species and the creation of wildlife habitats, promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability.
How Your Support Will Make a Difference:
Your contribution will directly impact the lives of local residents by providing a much-needed green space for recreation, education, and community building. It will help us create a sustainable, inclusive environment where people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect with nature.
Future Plans:
Should we exceed our £12,000 target, additional funds will be invested in further enhancing the community farm and garden. We aim to install a rainwater capture and irrigation system to promote sustainable water use. Additionally, we plan to commission a unique piece of art or sculpture from a local talent, adding an artistic touch to our community space and celebrating local talent.
Thank You!
Join us in making Charlea Community Farm and Gardens a beacon of hope, sustainability, and community spirit. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, is invaluable. Thank you for helping us bring this dream to life!