A community garden built almost exclusively from recycled materials has officially opened in Portpatrick.
On August 12, tenants of Old Station Court welcomed Loreburn Housing Association staff to the garden’s opening-day celebrations.
The occasion was organised by two of the residents, with the buffet being provided by the Fed -up Community Café in Stranraer.
The space has been completely transformed using pallets, old recycling boxes and donated garden ornaments.
A resident said: “It’s brilliant. I can come out of my flat in the morning, sit and relax and enjoy a coffee.
“During the Covid restrictions, it’s been amazing to be able to use this space. I have been able to meet and talk to people I probably wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Wooden pallets have been re-purposed into seating areas and planters, while old garden furnishings have been up-cycled and given a new lease of life.
Re-purposed crockery, purchased at the Community Re-Use Project, will be donated to the Wigtownshire Women and Cancer group for them to use at afternoon tea events.
Loreburn’s Neighbourhood Officers Paul Challis and Rachael McCrory supported residents throughout the project, including helping with the cost of new felt for the summerhouse roof.
Sue Irving, Director of Housing Services at Loreburn, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to our customers who have created this amazing space.
“The garden is lovely but what is most impressive is the community spirit that it has created, making it an even greater place to live.”
Locals are already reaping the benefits of their new garden as they enjoy home-grown fresh fruit and veg, including carrots, potatoes and peas.
