The Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU) has launched a community garden to offer a space for students to get involved with growing vegetables.
The SUBU Community Garden, located next to Poole Gateway Building at Bournemouth University’s (BU) Talbot Campus, is a brand-new initiative developed by the Students’ Union to foster sustainability, enhance student wellbeing and strengthen community engagement.
BU students, staff and members of the local community can contribute to the Community Garden through various volunteering opportunities, including sowing and planting, watering, weeding and harvesting.
All produced grown through the Community Garden will be donated to SUBU’s Community Kitchen, which aims to help university students who may not be able to afford essential items due to the rising cost-of-living.
The space also exists to promote wellbeing, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy a quiet spot outdoors.
The garden will be used for a range of activities by both the university and local community to host workshops, plant sales, teambuilding activities and holiday clubs for children.
Kyla Richer, a Master’s student at Bournemouth University, has volunteered in the Community Garden since the build began in January. She said: “It’s amazing to see all the hard work put into the garden over the last few months pay off – it’s looking incredible!
“During my first volunteering role within the garden, I was helping to shovel compost into the planters. Now, we’re getting to harvest what we have grown – it’s such a great feeling knowing that you can help to make a difference.”
Chloe Lockett, Advice Manager at SUBU, has led the development of the Community Garden. She said: “We are incredibly proud to launch the SUBU Community Garden. It is a beautiful, inclusive space that not only supports our sustainability goals, but also enriches the vibrant BU landscape.
“It’s the perfect spot for students to take a break, connect with others and help make a positive impact. Whether you’re passionate about growing your own food or simply want to spend time outdoors, everyone is welcome to visit.”
Chloe added: “The development of our Community Garden would not be possible without the help from our volunteers. We welcome anyone to drop into one of our volunteering sessions, held in the Community Garden every Monday from 3pm to 5pm, and Wednesdays from 12pm to 2pm.”
An official opening of the Community Garden will take place on Tuesday 20 May from 12pm to 2pm. The launch event will feature a tour of the garden and opportunities for visitors to learn about the benefits of the space.
Everyone is welcome to attend the official opening. For more information and to book your free ticket, visit the SUBU website.
If you would like to host an event in the Community Garden or would like to volunteer your time to support the initiative, you can reach the Students’ Union on 01202 965765.