The Ethical Kitchen Garden (EKG) initiative, launched by sustainability brand We Do Ethical, has rejuvenated the St Ambrose Church grounds in Westbourne in just five months.
The previously neglected space is now a lively community garden.
The public is invited to celebrate the transformation at the Community Garden Launch barbecue on Sunday, September 28, from 12pm to 4pm.
The event will feature organic food, live music and activities and attendees will have the chance to plant a flower bulb.
The Westbourne project has been so successful that it’s been recognised nationally, with plans to expand to other community centres and boxing gyms.
The ultimate aim is to create sustainable food hubs across the UK.
Kelly Levell, founder of We Do Ethical, said: “In just five months, we have transformed an unused, forgotten space into a thriving garden full of life, learning and opportunity.”
More than 30 community members are already growing their own food at the site.
The project also features microbial fuel cells, which show how plants can generate electricity and research into structured water, which could increase food yields by 40 per cent.
New beehives are being introduced to boost pollination, biodiversity and honey production.
The project’s progress has been aided by donations from various businesses.
Suttons Seeds donated 170 bee-friendly bulbs, while Eco Sustainable Solutions provided more than 12 cubic metres of organic compost.
Cordless, rechargeable gardening equipment was supplied by Stiga Garden Care, and has already been used to create the first lawn at the onsite preschool in more than a decade.
Mia Young, an environmental scientist at We Do Ethical, said: “Thanks to the generosity of Suttons, Stiga, Eco Sustainable Solutions and our amazing group of over 30 volunteers, we’ve laid the foundations for something truly special.
“But to keep growing, we need our community and local businesses to get involved.
“Together, we can build a legacy of food security, biodiversity, and community connection for generations to come.”
Tickets for the launch event are £15 in advance or £18 on the door.
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