A new learning garden in Thornton Heath will give schoolchildren a green space to explore nature, care for raised beds, and observe micro-habitats.
Under Labour, Colliers Water Garden, located in Colliers Water Lane, was previously unused and overgrown. The site has been transformed using funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), part of Croydon’s successful £833k bid to improve district centres across the borough.
The project supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s priority to create a cleaner and safer Croydon while restoring local pride. Croydon Council worked closely with Whitehorse Manor Primary School-Brigstock Site and the local community to design the garden. Pupils contributed ideas on plants, play areas, and how the garden could best support learning.
The completed garden features bug hotels, raised planters with edible and sensory plants, a small amphitheatre for outdoor lessons, play areas, and a shed with a water harvesting tank and compost area. The space will also be available to local community groups by arrangement with the Council.
“We have invested £222,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Thornton Heath and the Colliers Water Garden is one of three projects that the local community chose for their area. It’s wonderful to see this piece of overgrown land being transformed into a garden where Whitehorse Manor pupils can learn and enjoy.
“These projects are about investing in Croydon and restoring pride in our borough, whilst working with our communities to deliver the improvements that they want to see.”
– Jason Perry, Conservative Mayor of Croydon
