Back to nature to tackle Doncaster's health issues

A former piece of waste land has been transformed to become a garden of opportunity for a whole community.
Edlington allotmentEdlington allotment
Edlington allotment

The land close to the Edlington Hilltop Centre is now a resource and central hub for local residents of all ages, to be used in a wide variety of ways.

It was all made possible with financial and other support from UK housing provider and community regeneration specialist Keepmoat. With unique features such as raised flower beds, and a sensory garden for people affected by stroke and dementia, the allotment also caters for older users who may be unable to maintain their own patch.

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Government public health statistics also show that Edlington is among the worst areas for tooth decay in five-year olds across South Yorkshire.

Healthy eating classes are planned for local families using produce grown on the allotments, in a bid to tackle the dental problem at its roots and reduce tooth decay in children.

Activity will include placements for volunteers and options to gain accredited qualifications linked to allotment work, with opportunities and advice for unemployed residents.

Mark Knight, Regional Managing Director for Keepmoat in Yorkshire said: “The launch of the allotment project was a great success. It was welcomed by a fantastic turnout from local residents, Caroline Flint MP, local councillors and respective sponsors.

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“Keepmoat prides itself on rebuilding and bringing communities together through regeneration and housing projects, and we are particularly honoured to work with a facility such as Hilltop which delivers such a wide range of projects that educate and train all members of the community.”

The company has worked with the project for over a year, and the site has been well worked during the summer months.

Yew Gardens is Keepmoat’s housing development in Edlington, with nearby sites Dominion at Carr Lodge and Evergreen in Bentley.