Terenure Community Garden Proposal
As part of our community integration and social inclusion program this year we are taking up the mantle to try and create a Community Garden within Terenure.
Those of you who are familiar with community gardens know how important they are to nature but also to our own mental health too.
At a very simple level a community garden is a space with raised beds were the community can grow biodiverse planting which attracts pollinators. It can be a mixture of fruits, vegetables and pollinator-friendly flowers. The community can benefit from local seasonal produce, have a place to sit and enjoy wildlife and new opportunities for children and adults to learn about horticulture. Such community gardens are intended to be loved and used by all in the community. Community gardens are a hugely positive step for nature and the environment we live in, even if this only seems like a small initial step to assist in improving the biodiversity in Terenure, it is in the right direction for a better community.
What we have completed so far:
Went door-to-door to ask residents whether they would like to see a community garden in Terenure. Happy to say there is overwhelming support from everyone who answered the door.
Talked to community groups within Terenure including retirees, migrant support group, smart agers, tidy towns, toddler playgroup, autisim support groups and schools as to whether they would like to be involved in this type of project. Again a very positive response and if I haven’t contacted you please feel free to get in touch, all very welcome.
Talked to the Association of Residents of Terenure who were very supportive.
Reached out to other communities who have already implemented a community garden in Kimmage and Ringsend. Visits planned for both so that we learn from our neighbouring communities and don’t reinvent the wheel.
Contacted our local councillors and TDs for support, all of whom were very supportive of such an initiative.
Contacted Dublin City Council community support team and the parks department to ensure we have the right people involved in the project.
Attended the Lord Mayor’s Community Biodiversity information event with two members of the Association of Resident of Terenure.
What’s next:
Awaiting a reply from Dublin City Council Parks department with agreement to use the proposed space for a community garden.
Collecting and planting seedlings within the Terenure Community Groups which can be transplanted once the proposed green space is ready.
Visiting other community gardens, growing our knowledge… excuse the pun ;-)
Continuous updates to all involved.
Welcome new people and ideas.
