Redbridge’s gardening enthusiasts team up to get the borough blooming

Community spirit was blooming in Redbridge as gardening enthusiasts of all ages and abilities came together to plant more than 1000 flowers across the borough – helping brighten up local neighbourhoods.

Nearly 200 local people took part in Redbridge’s recent Community Planting Days, held in Oakfield Road, Ilford, and outside Seven Kings Station.

The day of social action brought together people of all ages and backgrounds ranging from a mum with her 19-month-old baby, students and young children to local businesses and older generations in the borough.

The popular green scheme, run across two days, was led by Redbridge Council’s Neighbourhoods Team to help boost biodiversity in the borough, teach new skills in the community and create attractive neighbourhoods.

The team provided those taking part with hi-vis wear, gloves, and trowels, along with training on gardening basics for those new to it.

Aston Estate Agents, in Seven Kings, was among the local businesses inspired to take part on the day, with team member Yasir Adnan among those getting involved.

Yasir said: “Planting outside Seven Kings Station enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area, creating a welcoming and pleasant environment, as well as supporting local biodiversity by offering habitats for various species of plants and animals. Moreover, community planting projects can foster a sense of ownership and pride among residents, encouraging social interaction and cooperation. It not only beautifies the area, but also contributes to environmental sustainability and community well-being.”

The fun-filled planting days, which were free to take part in, led to green fingered locals filling a total of 48 planters across the two locations.

Among the flowers planted were petunia, begonia, geranium and impatiens.

Janet from Seven Kings, who took part in the event, said: “I enjoyed planting the geraniums, busy lizzies and petunias. The planters really brighten up the area and will do for months to come. It was great to meet others who share my enthusiasm for our community and environment.”

Redbridge Council Neighbourhoods Manager, Joanne Smallman, said: “Our Community Planting Days are always a big hit with local people of all ages and gardening ability. It was lovely to see everyone bonding over flowers and working together to create vibrant, colourful neighbourhoods that can be enjoyed by so many across the borough.”

Community gardening is one of several eco-projects under the borough’s Our Streets Strategy, which focuses on social action and working with local communities to keep Redbridge’s street scene green, clean, safe, and attractive. 

For more information, or to find out how to get involved, go to: www.redbridge.gov.uk/our-streets/

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