Parker’s Row Garden refurbished

Parker's Row Garden on the Dickens Estate has been improved with a £12,500 grant from Bermondsey & Rotherhithe Community Council's Cleaner Greener Safer fund.

The application for funding was submitted by Angela O'Shaughnessy, former chair of the Dickens Estate Tenants' and Residents' Association (DETRA).

Local residents Ilene Sparks and Virginia Vidler cut the ribbon to reopen the garden along with councillors and other guests.

"Southwark Council's Cleaner Greener Safer funding has helped to improve Parker's Row Garden and encourage more people to use this wonderful green space, which is obviously very dear to the hearts of the local residents nearby," said Cllr Darren Merrill, cabinet member for environment, recycling, community safety and volunteering.

"It was great to see so many people strolling together at the opening, and I hope many of the residents will be encouraged to spend more time in the garden in future"

Gary Kandinsky, chair of DETRA, said: "We are delighted to see that our Parkers' Row Garden has been relandscaped into a beautiful green space with lovely seating, a hot flower bed and trimmed bushes, all with the help of the CGS award.

"We now have a safe place for elderly people to sit out, and to meet with fellow residents in the open air. Thanks to all DETRA residents, staff, councillors and Southwark Council for your support!"

The refurbished garden now features a new hard area with timber benches and low tables to encourage people to use the space all year round.

The design also incorporates a new shady planted area and a hot planting bed. The footways have been cleaned and a bird feeder and boxes have been installed to encourage wildlife.

Applications are now open for Southwark's 2015/16 Cleaner Greener Safer programme. The closing date for entries is Friday 7 November and successful applications will be announced at community council meetings in January and February 2015.