An award winning project in Bounds Green, which has transformed a derelict piece of land into a green community hub, has been praised by local MP Lynne Featherstone.

The MP visited Imperial Road, to see how the £140,000 has been invested by housing group Places for People, and the benefit it has had on local residents.

The project is part of a £15.6 million Big Lottery project which has seen Places for People transform public space in 80 communities across the UK. The Group has worked with 30,000 people to introduce parks and community gardens as well as the creation of sports facilities, play areas, wildlife habitats, sensory gardens and green social enterprises.

The green spaces project at Imperial Road provides:

• A community garden with colourful play equipment for smaller children
• A ball games area for young people
• Improved lighting, a notice board, new railings and lockable gates ensuring better security for residents.
• Seating areas, planting and shelter creating an attractive environment where residents can socialise.
• Shrubs and wild flower meadow where residents can get involved in gardening.

Including residents in both the design and management of the spaces has helped to create a sense of ownership and pride within the community. As Lynne Featherstone MP commented:

“I’m amazed at how this area has been transformed, into a colourful, fun, welcoming community area where neighbours, old and young, can socialise and play. Having met quite a few local people here today, it’s clear that this small project has made a big difference to residents’ lives.”

David Hooper, Regional Manager at Places for People said:

“Good quality green spaces are essential to the well-being of our towns and cities and this exciting programme has delivered environmental and social improvement by providing the local residents with new places to play and relax.”