Community Garden Centre -Stapleton Rd Station

Eastside Roots Community Garden Centre - Stapleton Road Station

The development of the garden centre at Stapleton Road Station was the largest project the Partnership worked on during 2008.  The Partnership had been involved in the negotiations between the community and Network Rail since 2006 and the contracts were signed at the end of 2007.

2008 saw the hard work begin with the clearance of the disused track beds.  This stage of the work was undertaken by the Avon  and Somerset Probation Service under the unpaid work scheme also known as pay back to the community.  A special mention also needs to go to the Clean and Green team at Bristol City Council who removed all the rubbish and vegetation.

Eastside Roots were then able to continue with their plans to develop a gardening hub for Easton and the wider Bristol community.  In April 2008 they celebrated the introduction of the garden centre by holding a spring fayre, which attracted over 200 people.

During 2008 the derelict land at Stapleton Road Station has been regenerated, creating a safe, social, positive and thriving community green space.  It is also used for skills and knowledge sharing, education, plant and seed sales, resource hire as well as holding events and celebrations.

The project has been guided by the community and Eastside Roots wish this to continue.  Nick Ward, Project Co-ordinator, is always looking for volunteers, so if you would like to assist and become involved with Eastside Roots please contact Nick on 07810 806354 or email nick@eastsideroots.org.uk.

On the 25 April 2009 the second Spring Fayre will be held to launch the Garden Centre.  Don't forget the Garden Centre shop is now open most Saturdays between 11 am and 3 pm, so why not pay them a visit.  For full details of the activities at the Centre go to www.eastsideroots.org.uk.