Designed with tenants in mind
Tenants at Oliphant Court in Renfrewshire are set to enjoy a welcoming new outdoor space, thanks to a £10,000 grant from SPA’s Community Benefit Fund. Delivered in partnership with Lintel Trust, and supported by additional investment from Paisley Housing Association, the project has transformed unused land around the tower block into a safe, inclusive and nature-friendly community garden.
The Bee Friendly garden was shaped through consultation with tenants, many of whom are older people, vulnerable residents or living in single-person tenancies. Their feedback helped ensure the new space would be accessible, inclusive and supportive of residents’ wellbeing.
What the garden includes
Trees, shrubs, wildlife-friendly planting and a fast-growing hedge to provide privacy.
Accessible paths linking different zones, giving less mobile tenants the opportunity to enjoy gentle walks in the fresh air.
A BBQ area, picnic bench and seating to help residents gather, socialise and spend some “thyme” outside during warmer weather.
A second, smaller “secret garden” offers a quieter and more private space for residents who prefer a calmer setting. This suntrap area includes allotment boxes, a raised planter, bee-friendly flowers, bug houses, a hedgehog house and bamboo screening to create a natural sense of privacy.
Positive early feedback
Support workers highlighted early on the difference the garden could make for tenants who may find it difficult to travel far from home.
“The garden is an excellent idea, as he is vulnerable, can’t walk far and rarely leaves the house. He has said that he would like to go outside for short walks, so the project is ideal.”
Another support worker highlighted the benefits of the quieter screened area:
“I am very positive about the bamboo-screened area at the end of the larger garden. When my client gets distressed, he currently asks me to open the window so he can listen to the birds. I feel this will have a very positive impact for my client.”
A lasting community benefit
Now the garden is looking fantastic, residents are looking forward to making the most of their new outdoor space as the plants become established. The project is a strong example of how community benefit funding can support social inclusion, improve wellbeing and create spaces that bring people together.
