FIRM bonds of friendship between young and old are ready to bloom thanks to a new play area.
The toddler park has opened at Barter Road in Wrexham at a cost of more that £40,000 in a project between Wales and West Housing and the Barracksfield Tenants Association.
Among its features is a raised bed section where older residents will be educating inquisitive youngsters about gardening and food selection, which will help promote healthy living and reduce social isolation.
Vy Cochran, community development project officer at Wales and West, said it would play an important part in helping to bring the whole community together.
“The original idea came about from feedback we have had, asking people what facilities they wanted to be provided.
“It has taken a couple of years to organise everything and it really is wonderful to be able to see the project come to fruition and get under way.
“It is a brilliant success story and thanks must go to everyone who has made a contribution.”
The salad, fruit, vegetables and herbs grown will be shared among the gardeners and Barracksfield’s Sylvester Court Luncheon Club.
As well as children of residents at Barracksfield, pupils of Ysgol Bodhyfryd will be part of the play plant project.
Headteacher Geraint Jones said the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and take part in a healthy activity like gardening would help boost children’s well-being. It was also an important educational tool.
“Being an eco school in Hightown, we’re delighted to see these facilities introduced,” said Mr Jones.
“Our pupils have gained hugely from the school’s healthy food co-op and from visiting pensioners at the luncheon club.
“This will provide another chance for the school to work with the community.”
The total cost was £43,663. Funding came from a number of partners, including WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental Ltd), who contributed £37,633, Offa Community Council, Wales and West Housing, AVOW (Association of Voluntary Organisation Wrexham).