Sensory Garden Transforms Extra Care Scheme

Resident Terry cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of the sensory garden

Housing 21 residents and employees with Cllr Surjan (third from left), Cllr Brownridge (fourth from left) and Cllr Jabbar (fifth from left)

Residents enjoying the new sensory garden at Trinity House

A new sensory garden has officially opened following a transformation at Trinity House in Coldhurst, Oldham.

Originally an under-utilised carpark, the new garden was transformed to bring a much-needed, outdoor green space for residents. The garden includes wheelchair-friendly circular benches, additional seating including an awning, raised timber planters, a pergola and a new access ramp, and a selection of plants which include a variety of roses, lavender and winter jasmine.

The project has been delivered by Housing 21 who manage the Extra Care scheme and Oldham Council who funded the renovations through their Capital Investment Fund 2019-22. They also funded two other gardens at Tandle View Court in Royton and Charles Morris House in Failsworth.

"This has been a great partnership between Housing 21 and Oldham Council," said Dawn Aston-Adams, Head of Oldham at Housing 21. "This new garden is already making a real difference to people's lives at Trinity House, and we can all appreciate how having access to green space is good for our wellbeing."

The garden was officially opened on 27th July by Cllr Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Leader of Oldham Council and Councillor for Coldhurst Ward, Cllr Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care and Cllr Ruji Sapna Surjan, Councillor for Coldhurst Ward. Trinity House residents Dougie Duffy and Terry Booth were also in attendance.

"The new garden at Trinity House looks fantastic and provides a wonderful new green space, which is fully accessible for all tenants and local residents to enjoy," said Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Leader of Oldham Council. "Through our partnership with Housing 21, people can relax outside and can even take advantage of the great restaurant facilities offering affordable, freshly prepared meals, so I can encourage everyone to make full use of it."

The grand opening was a celebration for both residents and partners, with entertainment, fun activities and a buffet provided by on the on-site restaurant. Partners were also welcomed with a tour of the scheme, met with Housing 21 employees and enjoyed a tour of the show apartment to learn more about the Extra Care services provided.