A group of volunteers has erected a living willow structure in Bush Hill Park, the latest instalment in the park’s thriving community wildlife garden.
The Friends of Bush Hill Park successfully applied for funding for the dome and seating from Enfield Council. They hope the wildlife garden will become a destination for Bush Hill Park’s users, fulfilling the group’s vision of making it an area for natural play, wildlife discovery, education and relaxation.
The friends group has already worked wonders with the space. Two years ago, the garden was somewhat neglected and suffered from low-level anti-social behaviour. The garden now has new ponds, a bio-diverse wildflower meadow and a bug hotel as well as a security gate.
The group was met by a large number of volunteers to put up the dome including members of Enfield in Bloom, The Enfield Society, Bush Hill Park Residents’ Association and members of the police force.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Guney Dogan, said: “Following the first phase of redevelopment by the Friends group, there has been a visible increase in visitors to the garden.
“The changes have created a wonderful opportunity for the community to experience nature first-hand and to learn about wildlife in a safe and secure environment. I would like to thank the ongoing efforts of all the volunteers who put in their time into maintaining this fabulous wildlife garden.”
The Friends of Bush Hill Park have forged many relationships and partnerships within the community which has contributed to the ongoing success of the park. For example, schools are welcome to use the natural outdoor classroom for learning; volunteers from the charity One-to-One work in the kitchen garden, wildlife garden and copses every week; and Inclusive Cycling classes take place around the park all year round (booking essential).
The Friends of Bush Hill Park welcome volunteers to its gardening club every Tuesday mornings. For more information, join their Facebook group or email [email protected] .
There are a number of volunteer groups all across Enfield working in the borough’s parks and open spaces. The Council’s ‘I Love Enfield’ campaign aims to celebrate the volunteers in the borough and to help communities take pride in their surroundings. Tell us your volunteering stories on Facebook or Twitter @EnfieldCouncil and use the hashtag #ILoveEnfield.
