For years the Montpellier allotment and green space at Horton Road, Gloucester, has provided an invaluable resource. The half-acre site is regularly accessed for rehabilitation, development and meaningful engagement by our patients at Montpellier Low Secure Unit, and those who access our Trust’s services countywide. It is also a resource which is utilised by our colleagues, community groups, local organisations and education providers in Gloucestershire.
Although it has provided an invaluable resource for many years, it is well overdue investment. Victoria Woodruff, Senior Occupational Therapist and EAP Team Leader at Montpellier Low Secure Unit, recently secured funding for a redevelopment project which is being led in-house by herself and Expert by Experience Kevin Mackenzie. The pair have formed a joint working party to oversee the project
The primary aims of the project are to improve the site’s accessibility and facilities, while creating a sustainable and environmentally-friendly green space and therapeutic resource for patients, colleagues and local community to enjoy.
Works so far include:
- the introduction of wheelchair and improved access to the site by relocation of the entrance and the introduction of level pathways
- refurbishment of the existing greenhouses
- the planting of additional raised vegetable and flower beds
- installation of a wildlife pond with levelled viewing platform
- installation of a Koi Carp pond
- construction of a bird aviary housing quails and finches
- establishment of a nature reserve, utilising existing woodland and the introduction of native trees and vegetation
- demolition of the existing chicken coop and the relocation of the hens to a free-range paddock.
The working party is delighted to report that already the site is attracting more birds and local wildlife following the addition of the wildlife pond and nature reserve.
Works still outstanding include the construction of a purpose-built cabin/workshop with ‘living roof’ and toilet facilities, utilising eco-friendly and recycled materials where possible. This will be located at the Horton Road end of the site and replace the current workshop, which is now being used for storage.
In this short film, Senior Occupational Therapist and EAP Team Leader, Victoria Woodruff, and service user Roger, who is helping to lead on the project, provide an update on the redevelopment works so far.
For more information, to share ideas and comments, or to get involved in the project, please contact Victoria on 01452 894579 (Montpellier Unit), or email victoria.woodruff@ghc.nhs.uk
Progress so far…
The site at the start of the project
How the site looks today
