New beginnings for community garden on Queens Drive

Date published: 08 June 2023

A long-established community garden in Kirkholt is back on track with a new start.

Q Gardens on Queens Drive was first established around 2012 with the support of Groundwork and businessman Richard Hagan, from Crystal Doors.

The purpose of Q Gardens is to provide a green space for the local residents of Kirkholt and the wider community to use for the promotion of wellbeing, fitness and enjoyment, whilst gardening in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way.

The pandemic had taken its toll but a new committee – Q Garden in the Community – is aiming to restore the work already done and expand even further.

A non-profit organisation, Q Garden in the Community, currently has four people on its committee and around 12 volunteers.

Barbara Smith, treasurer of the committee, said: “With the invaluable support of Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Borough Housing and Richard Hagan, we are pleased to announce a new start for this amazing space. 

“We actively promote the exchange of ideas and skills between our volunteers and use our combined experiences to educate all our participants in gardening skills, the natural environment and promote friendship and enjoyment of the outdoor space.”

She continued: “We welcome all volunteers from all backgrounds, with or without gardening knowledge, who would benefit from meeting new friends in a safe place.

“We are actively seeking new volunteers and we open on Wednesday from 11am and on Sunday from 10am each week.

“Come along for a guided tour and a chat with us; you will be made very welcome.”