Gardening project hopes to create a sense of community

16:05 23rd August 2011

The Lochend Growing Project in Edinburgh is aiming to create a sense of community among its residents by teaching new skills about growing fruit and veg, and encouraging people to build new relationships.

Funded by the City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish National Heritage, the project was established by the charity Carr-Gomm, which hopes that 40 to 50 community members will get involved and help maintain the garden.

George Lang of Carr-Gomm told STV that the charity aims to inspire willingness from the community.

"One element is about turning a particular piece of space into a garden. But it's also a vehicle for helping people in an area get to know each other," he added.

Research from the Edinburgh Community Backgreens Association found that local residents wanted regular community events such as barbecues, picnics and art sessions.

Carr-Gomm is a charity which helps provide support and services that place individuals or, in this case, communities in control of their lives.