Last week we welcomed Councillors Justin Madders, Angela Claydon and Ben Powell to the Mill Lane site as the first foundations were laid. 

They official designated the site of a Community Green in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mill Lane Community Green will be a space available for local residents to hold outdoor events that benefit the community.

Pictured above (L>R): Ola Rug (newly appointed Deputy Farm Manager), David Fletcher (Farm Manager), John Hickey (Localities Manager at local council), Cllr Angela Claydon, Cllr Ben Powell, Cllr Justin Madders, Joan Webber (local resident and Ellesmere Port Scrutiny), Francis Ball (MD of Bridge Community Farms)

Councillor Angela Claydon said: “I think the Community Green is a marvellous idea for our local community, which will give an extra space for people to hold outdoor community events such as concerts and fun days. We are looking now for a group of local residents to run the site and organise activities so if anyone is interested, please contact us and let us know.”

We have also laid the first foundations for raised beds, which will be planted with vegetables and herbs as part of therapeutic activity for local people with mental health problems, learning disabilities and physical disabilities. The beds are being built by Access 2 Training and Employment, a local community interest company that offers practical training to young people who might otherwise struggle to find work.

Councillor Justin Madders said: “It’s good to see such a different and new idea for the town and I’m very pleased that a piece of land that wasn’t really going to be put to any use has been rejuvenated. I think it’s something that’s going to be of real benefit for anyone that wants to get involved.”

Francis Ball, Director of Bridge Community Farms, said: “The site is really starting to take shape and we are excited about getting ready to open in the summer. We are particular pleased that we will be able to give over so much space to the Mill Lane Community Green and we are looking forward to hosting all sorts of events over the coming months.”

We are looking for people to volunteer with us - if you’d like to get involved please contact Collette on 07847 824 910 or email volunteers@bridgecommunityfarms.co.uk