Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Active Communities Team have joined forces with Voluntary Action Stratford-on-Avon and Stratford Town Trust to develop an exciting new outdoor 'green gym' project called 'Go Green' to complement the other 'GET -SET -GO' range of activities.
A 'green gym' is simply physical activity that is taken in a natural environment on a structured and regular basis - the exercise improves physical health while being outdoors in the fresh air and green space and in touch with nature brings with it many psychological and mental health benefits and an increased sense of wellbeing.
The project aims to create a shared allotment plot, which will combine gardening with raising awareness of healthy eating and a sensory country plant and herb garden, which will provide opportunities for people to take part in social active recreation on a specially created lawned area.
Paula Watson, Active Communities Officer at Stratford District says: "Imagine being part of a group doing gentle stretching on a lovely sunny day, listening to the wind rustle through the trees, and surrounded by wild flowers and butterflies with the scent of fragrant herbs wafting on the breeze, followed by a delicious lunch of vegetable produce that you have the satisfaction of knowing that you cultivated yourself - fabulous!"
The proposed plots of land have been unused for many years due to their condition, location, access problems and other ecological factors, which the project is addressing and working hard to resolve.
The work, which will target specific sectors of the community aged 45 years and over who may not otherwise be able to enjoy gardening or being active outdoors in such a safe and supported way, is being supported by Warwickshire County Council's Community Development Fund, but local business sponsorship and a team of volunteers are still required to make the project a success and sustainable for the future. It is hoped that with the right support from the local community, both the allotment and the garden can be enjoyed by many people for many years to come.
If you are interested in finding out more or want to know how you can help, please contact Paula Watson on 01789 260648 or email paula.watson@stratford-dc.gov.uk
