Garden of Hope and Reflection launched in Moyard

A new community garden has been opened in the Upper Springfield area. The Garden of Hope and Reflection was officially opened following a 12 week project coordinated by Upper Springfield Development Trust’s Youth Team, Action Ability Belfast, and Ark Housing.

The new garden, in Moyard House hostel off the Springfield Road, was designed by local young people and residents.  The garden was officially opened by Ark Housing’s CEO, Jim McShane, during Homelessness Awareness Week and was attended by all the young people and residents who took part in the project as well as members of local community and statutory organisations.

 

Jim McShane, CEO of Ark Housing, opens Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper SpringfieldJim McShane, CEO of Ark Housing, opens Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper Springfield. To his right are young people who took part in developing the garden.

 

Upper Springfield Development Trust’s Michael McAllister coordinated the project thanks to support from Live Here Love Here and Department for Communities. Mr McAllister said: Previously, this piece of ground at Moyard House was simply unused waste land. Now the Garden of Hope and Reflection is a safe and relaxing environment for individuals and families to enjoy. It is timely that we launch this garden during Homelessness Awareness Week and we hope that this this garden will be enjoyed by those families who find themselves in this hostel.”

“The garden was designed in partnership with young people involved in the Upper Springfield Youth Team and Moyard House residents. 15 young people took part in designing the garden, some of whom have previously lived in Moyard House hostel. Everyone involved in the project was engaged right from the start, from designing the space to choosing the flowers and shrubs. Together we planted trees, flower beds, and hanging baskets. We also worked together to install lighting and created a seating area as well as an ornamental wishing well.  The teenagers have really enjoyed the programme and many have said it’s been great to give back to their local community.”

If you are interested in the work of the Upper Springfield Youth Team please contact the Upper Springfield Development Trust on 02890236677 or email n.enright@usdt.co.uk.

 

Lorraine Morrison and daughter Zoey Morrison enjoy the new Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper Springfield

Lorraine Morrison and daughter Zoey Morrison enjoy the new Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper Springfield

 

Odhran Hughes ties a wish to the wishing tree in the newly launched Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper Springfield
Odhran Hughes ties a wish to the wishing tree in the newly launched Garden of Hope and Reflection in Upper Springfield