A GARDEN designed to enhance physical and mental wellbeing in the heart of Pershore has officially opened to much acclaim.
St Andrew’s Gardens, off Church Walk has been transformed into an abundant oasis to promote sensory exploration, biodiversity and community engagement.
The project, led by the Pershore Place Board, was done in collaboration with Pershore Town Council, the Diocese of Worcester and Abbotswood Medical Centre.
It aligns with one of the organisation’s six key strategic objectives which is to make Pershore ‘A destination for all’.
Horticulture lecturers and students at Pershore College created the garden which was previously an informal green space and closed churchyard connected with the former Grade II*-listed St Andrew’s Church.
It is now home to more than 135 English roses, and in partnership with Abbottswood Medical Centre, will offer a space for social prescribing.
The area has been respectfully transformed into a bespoke sensory garden, offering a tranquil yet stimulating environment for people of all ages and abilities.
The design has enhanced accessibility, and includes smooth pathways, raised planters, and ample seating areas for people to relax and enjoy its beauty.
“The newly enhanced St. Andrew’s Gardens creates a magnificently enhanced green space in Pershore town centre that will benefit the entire community,” said Darren Eden, chair of Pershore Place Board.
“By collaborating with excellent local organisations, we aim to deliver a garden that is both beautiful and beneficial for mental and physical wellbeing.
“The work to date is not a finished article but the start of a new journey for the gardens which will see additional areas of focus as time goes on.”
In addition, the space will celebrate the history of the very special site as a closed graveyard through interpretation boards and maintaining existing memorials and headstones.
Pershore town mayor, Julie Hemming, Town Mayor, added: “This historic and spiritual land has been revitalised. We celebrate more than a garden, we celebrate community – greener, healthier, more connected.”
The project was funded through Wychavon District Council’s share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
