This pocket of land next to the winter moorings had become overgrown with grass, brambles and weeds and wasn't a great habitat for wildlife along the canal.
Working with the students, who are between 16-24, we've have transformed this wasted land into what we hope will be a thriving mini nature reserve alongside the canal.
The garden
Over the last three months the students have helped to clear the area of weeds and overgrown shrubs, plant spring bulbs and built a bug hotel to provide a home for bugs and insects. The site also contains a sensory garden full of herbs which will help support rare insect species and allow people to connect with nature using all their senses.
Since working on the project the students have increased their confidence, become more independent, they've learnt how to work together as a team and also learnt new skills.
This space will be used as an outdoor learning area by the school and local youth groups where people can come to learn about how they can protect and improve habitats for nature in their area.
